CNN's Anderson Cooper confronted former California Lt. Gov. Abel Maldonado on his defense of Donald Trump's rhetoric by attributing it to being a 'New Yorker.' Maldonado's claim was challenged by Cooper and Watergate reporter Carl Bernstein, who questioned whether Trump's language was fascistic. Cooper dismissed Maldonado's explanation as 'bullshit' and contended that Trump's rhetoric should not be excused as typical New York behavior. The discussion also touched on criticism from former military officials like Mark Milley and John Kelly, who have labeled Trump as 'fascist to the core.' Maldonado argued these officials only criticized Trump after leaving their positions, a point Cooper contested. Despite the heated exchange, Maldonado maintained that Trump is a fighter and leader, reflecting a broader debate on Trump's rhetoric and leadership style.