Fox News host Laura Ingraham made a notable geography error on Wednesday night’s “The Ingraham Angle,” which might not sit well with residents of Minnesota and Wisconsin. During a segment criticizing the “radical policies” of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Ingraham mistakenly implied that Milwaukee is located in Minnesota. This blunder came immediately after she claimed to be well-versed in Walz’s home state.
“If you know Minnesota well, and I know it well—especially Milwaukee—it’s changed,” Ingraham stated to her guest, The Federalist Editor-in-Chief Mollie Hemingway. “It has never recovered from 2020, and it’s not the same place.” Her comment was met with immediate backlash, as Milwaukee is actually a city in Wisconsin, not Minnesota.
Milwaukee, which recently hosted the Republican National Convention, has indeed been a focal point for political events. Ingraham’s show had broadcasted nightly from the convention, further underscoring the irony of her geographical misstep.
The error quickly became a talking point on social media, with many users pointing out the importance of accurate geographical knowledge, especially for a national news host. Critics argued that such mistakes could undermine the credibility of the information being presented.
Ingraham’s mistake highlights the sensitivity and pride residents have regarding their state’s identity. Minnesota and Wisconsin, while neighboring states, have distinct cultural and geographical identities. Such errors can be seen as dismissive of these differences.
This incident also brings to light the broader issue of media figures needing to ensure accuracy in their statements, especially when making critical claims about specific regions. For residents of Minnesota and Wisconsin, Ingraham’s error was more than just a slip of the tongue—it was a reminder of the importance of respecting and accurately representing their states.
In the grander scheme, this blunder serves as a cautionary tale for public figures and media hosts. Ensuring accuracy and respecting regional identities are crucial for maintaining credibility and trust with the audience. As this story circulates, it remains to be seen if Ingraham will address the mistake and how it will impact her rapport with viewers from the Midwest.