CNN’s Brian Stelter says a new Quinnipiac poll highlighting Republican distrust of news media is an indicator of an “infection that’s spreading” throughout the party.

An exchange between the host of “Reliable Sources” and colleague Ryan Struyk was met with hostility on Friday after voters were likened to diseased patients in need of medical attention. Mr. Stelter called backlash by The Daily Caller’s Peter J. Hasson and others a “cheap shot.”

The incident began with Mr. Struyk’s tweet: “Only 37% of Republican voters say the news media is ‘an important part of democracy’ vs. a majority, 51%, who says it’s ‘the enemy of the people,’ via new Quinnipiac poll today.”

“What do you see in this data? I see an infection that’s spreading,” Mr. Stelter responded.

“If a group of people doesn’t trust you, calling them an ‘infection’ might not be the best way to win over their trust,” Mr. Hasson replied.

What do you see in this data? I see an infection that’s spreading… https://t.co/77UpEoW1yR — Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) April 27, 2018

A sampling of feedback by the social media curator Twitchy included:

“How is it a ‘cheap shot’ when your position is that people’s opinion of the job you’re doing is their problem (they’re ‘infected’ after all), not yours?”

“Fascinating use of the word ‘infection.’ The media blows its credibility by refusing to fairly and objectively report news, then complains that people didn’t submit to their virus.”

“If nobody thinks I’m doing a good job, it’s obviously their fault!”

Mr. Stelter’s comment was reminiscent of CNN peer Jim Acosta’s Variety interview published Tuesday. The network’s chief White House correspondent said voters “don’t have all their faculties in some cases — their elevator might not hit all floors. My concern is that a journalist is going to be hurt one of these days.”

Mr. Acosta attributed angry reactions to news outlets that “twisted” the context of his commentary.

If a group of people doesn’t trust you, calling them an “infection” might not be the best way to win over their trust. — Peter J. Hasson (@peterjhasson) April 27, 2018

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