An Iowa student who participated Monday night in CNN’s Democratic presidential town hall denied that his softball question for Hillary Clinton was scripted, as many Twitter users had speculated.
Brett Rosengren, who identified as an undecided voter, asked Clinton which former President inspired her most and why. He began his question by addressing Clinton as “Sec. Sanders,” referring to Clinton’s rival Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), before correcting himself.
“I can see why they gave you this question,” he said.
That pronoun choice sparked speculation on Twitter that Rosengren’s question was scripted and the entire town hall was a sham:
Hillary and CNN’s Democrat Town Hall: Scripted To Imperfection https://t.co/rL9IjyGYon pic.twitter.com/oez1bqsKGS
— The Resurgent (@resurgent) January 26, 2016
that Dem town hall was soooooo scripted last nite! #HillaryForPrison2016 https://t.co/yXhzLHSOSN
— Mark Killian (@B2Feet) January 26, 2016
So, @CNN and @ChrisCuomo had a “town hall” with scripted questions ?? #DemTownHall
— Connie Austin (@ConnieBAustin) January 26, 2016
But on Tuesday, Rosengren clarified on Twitter that he had submitted the question himself:
Thanks everyone for the love! For those wondering, it was my own question that I previously submitted directed to any candidate #DemTownHall
— Brett Rosengren (@Brett_Rose1596) January 26, 2016
Watch the exchange below: