CNN host Michael Smerconish has criticized the Biden campaign and a local Wisconsin radio station for editing portions of a recent interview with President Biden. Speaking on "CNN This Morning," Smerconish expressed his disapproval of altering audio of a presidential interview and airing it live, stating that such actions should never be taken by a radio station.

The controversy arose when Civic Media, a Wisconsin radio network, admitted to editing their interview with President Biden before it was aired on July 4th, as per the campaign's request. In a statement, the network acknowledged that the Biden campaign had asked for two edits to the recording immediately after it was recorded. The network's production team removed two segments, including a part where Biden highlighted the high number of Black people in his administration and another where he discussed Donald Trump's controversial call for the death penalty of the Central Park Five.

Civic Media later admitted wrongdoing and criticized "The Earl Ingram Show," the program responsible for the edits. The network stated that the production team considered the edits as non-substantive and believed it was acceptable to remove the two segments. However, Civic Media management disagreed with their judgment and condemned the decision to edit the interview audio.

Smerconish lashed out at the radio station for both controversies, expressing his disbelief at the fact that a presidential campaign would suggest questions to a radio host. While acknowledging that there might be discussions about the subject matter before an interview, he firmly stated that no host should ever accept questions suggested by any principal.

The CNN host also emphasized that editing an interview tape prior to airing is completely unacceptable. Kasie Hunt, in agreement with Smerconish, echoed his sentiment.

As the controversy continues to unfold, questions are being raised about journalistic integrity and the boundaries between campaigns and media outlets. The incident highlights the importance of transparency and maintaining the integrity of interviews, especially those involving national leaders.

Both the Biden campaign and Civic Media have yet to comment further on the situation.