Former White House counselor Kellyanne Conway found herself in a sharp exchange with Harvard student Jane Petersen during a campus event discussing the state of American politics. Petersen, known for her vocal critiques of conservative policies, challenged Conway on the role she played in shaping the political landscape under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The tense interaction occurred during a Q&A session when Petersen accused Conway of contributing to the country’s political polarization. In response, Conway defended her record, emphasizing her efforts to engage in dialogue and find common ground, even amid the charged political climate of recent years.
Conway addressed the broader issue of divisiveness, urging students to focus on constructive conversations rather than adopting an adversarial stance. She emphasized the importance of listening to differing viewpoints as a way to strengthen democratic institutions.
The incident drew mixed reactions from attendees and commentators alike. Some praised Petersen for voicing concerns about the current political environment, while others commended Conway for maintaining composure and reiterating the need for civility.
The exchange highlights the ongoing challenges of bridging ideological divides in the U.S., particularly on college campuses where political debates are often intense. For Conway, the event served as an opportunity to advocate for dialogue over division, though the spirited confrontation underscored the deep-seated tensions that remain in American political discourse.