Newsmax, a US-based TV station, journalist Rob Finnerty has apologized to Kenyans following backlash over his comparison of New York City’s deteriorating state to Nairobi.
In a statement on October 13, Finnerty said he misspoke and apologized to anyone offended by his comments.
“I want to offer an apology to the people of Nairobi, Kenya. The passion you have for your city and homeland is amazing. We all make mistakes. I misspoke, and I am sorry to anyone I have offended,” he wrote.
The apology follows remarks Finnerty made on October 9, when he linked immigration to what he described as the deterioration of some American cities, drawing a comparison with Nairobi.
What Did Rob Finnerty Say About Nairobi
In his October 9 bulletin, Finnerty linked immigration from developing countries to what he described as the decline of major Western cities.
He claimed that former US President Joe Biden had allowed millions of people from Africa, the Middle East and South America into the country, arguing that their arrival had changed the character of cities such as New York.
Finnerty said some American cities were beginning to look more like Nairobi than New York City, citing immigration and sanctuary city policies.
He also referenced New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Ugandan birthplace, questioning why the city should begin to resemble Uganda.
“We have no idea where these people are from. They move to blue sanctuary cities, and the cities then start to look more like Nairobi than New York City. Take a look. Every single person we talked to were immigrants from third world countries, which is exactly what the new socialist mayor of New York City wants,” he said.
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Kenyans Reactions To His Apology
Kenyans on X have reacted mixed to Newsmax journalist Rob Finnerty’s apology, with some insisting a written statement wasn’t enough and calling for a public apology on television.
Simon rejected the apology, writing, “Apology not accepted.”
Kiplang’at Arap Tuwei said Finnerty should apologise on live television while wearing a Kenyan bracelet and jersey.
“Your Apology Means Absolutely nothing on X … We can only accept your apology on live television while you’re wearing a Kenyan bracelet and a Kenyan Jersey!!!” he wrote.
Nyabasa Danvas also called on the journalist to return to the studio and issue an open letter of apology.
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Who Is Rob Finnerty?
Rob Finnerty is an American television news anchor and host best known for his work at Newsmax, where he joined in 2021.
He initially hosted the morning programme Wake Up America before moving to his own 8 p.m. Eastern Time show, Finnerty, in October 2024.
Before joining Newsmax, Finnerty worked as a reporter and anchor at several television stations, including WTSP 10 Tampa Bay, KCTV in Kansas City, KBAK in Bakersfield and New England Cable News.
He studied Journalism at Fairfield University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree between 2001 and 2005. He also attended Lawrence Academy in Groton, Massachusetts.
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