Scott Jennings draws criticism over Peggy Flanagan headscarf remark

On a CNN panel, Scott Jennings compared Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan's wearing of a headscarf to imagery from The Handmaid's Tale, which drew criticism from fellow panelists; Flanagan wore the scarf during a visit to a Somali market in Minneapolis amid reports of alleged daycare fraud.

A recent CNN panel discussion about the Somali community in Minnesota included a remark by commentator Scott Jennings comparing Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan's wearing of a headscarf to imagery from The Handmaid's Tale. The comment came during a closing-round exchange and was met with objections from other panelists, including the host. The context included public attention on allegations of fraud at some Somali-run daycare centers in Minneapolis and Flanagan's visit to a Somali market where she briefly wore a scarf. Key facts: - Scott Jennings made the comparison to The Handmaid's Tale while speaking on a CNN panel about the Somali community in Minnesota. - Other panelists and the host responded that the remark was inappropriate and racially insensitive; the exchange grew tense on air. - A spokesperson for Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan said she briefly wore the scarf as a gesture of respect during a visit to the Karmel Market, and highlighted broader concerns raised during the visit. Summary: The on-air comment prompted criticism and a tense panel exchange; the events are reported as part of a wider public discussion about the Somali community in Minnesota and recent allegations involving local daycare centers. Undetermined at this time.