Anderson Cooper Apologizes for Rude On-Air Insult to Chris Sununu

CNN host Anderson Cooper issued an apology on Tuesday after making a rude remark toward former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu during a live broadcast of Anderson Cooper 360.

The incident unfolded when Cooper and his guests were discussing transparency in government spending, including FEMA funds for migrants. Sununu asked if FEMA money for migrants was now acceptable, to which Cooper quickly responded, "I’m not saying it's okay, don’t put words in my mouth."

As the conversation heated up, Sununu pressed further, asking Cooper if he would “stop that process.” In the midst of the exchange, Cooper unexpectedly snapped, telling Sununu, “Don’t be a d---.”

The panel continued their discussion, but as the segment neared its end, Cooper took a moment to apologize for his outburst. “Before we go, I want to apologize,” Cooper said. “I was mean, I was rude to you, and I never…”

In a lighthearted response, Sununu, who seemed unfazed by the insult, reassured Cooper. “Are you kidding? I grew up with seven brothers and sisters, and I’m a Sununu. I’m a former governor. Do you want to know what I’m normally called? It’s one of the nicest things I’ve been called all week – it’s great.”

Despite Sununu’s playful response, Cooper insisted on offering a genuine apology, saying, “No, but I apologize. It's not… I don’t know why I said that.”

Sununu, ever the good sport, added, “It keeps it spicy, keeps it hot. It’s post 8 o’clock; have some fun on CNN.”

The awkward moment on Anderson Cooper 360 was a rare instance of on-air tension, but it was lightened by Sununu’s sense of humor. The incident followed an earlier stir in Washington, D.C., where freshman Rep. Maxine Dexter (D-OR) caused controversy for using profanity while speaking at a rally.

Despite the unexpected exchange, both Cooper and Sununu moved on amicably, with the latter brushing off the remark as part of the heated nature of political discussions.