Ellison tangles with Fox's Hannity

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison Tuesday night began an interview on Fox News by telling host Sean Hannity that he was "the worst excuse for a journalist I've ever seen," who is guilty of "inaccurate," "yellow journalism."

The interview went downhill from there.

Clips of the show Hannity introducing the spot by saying President Obama is "more concerned with fear mongering" on the spending automatic cuts due this week "rather than finding a solution" and suggesting Ellison could provide some insight. Shortly thereafter, Minneapolis congressman tangling over whether Hannity is a Republican -- Ellison insisted he was and Hannity countered that he's a registered conservative and Ellison responding that Hannity is a "shill for the Republican Party."

Then, with few interruptions from Hannity, Ellison attacked Republicans, defended Obama on the looming sequester.

"Let me ask you a question," Hannity said, as Ellison continued speaking. "I gave you three minutes to rant. Calm down. I gave you three minutes. Relax."

"This is a first amendment issue. I'm going to say what I think is right," Ellison said.

"Why're you so angry,"Hannity asked.

"I'm not angry, I'm laughing at you because I think this is actually comical," said Hannity.

"I'm laughing at you and it's not the first time," Ellison said.

They briefly tangled again about whether Hannity is a Republican after Hannity asked for a bipartisan dialogue, and Hannity offered to make a $1,000 bet with Ellison that is he a registered conservative.

As Hannity then attempted to ask Ellison about the country's debt, Ellison repeatedly interrupted him and they each called the other a "broken record." After Hannity asked about the debt level under Obama, Ellison said: "Why don't you call someone at the White House...I'm here to speak for myself," before making his own suggestions on how to close the debt.

Then Hannity began to ask another question about the debt: "Is it immoral to put 16 and 1/2.."

After a bit more cross talk, Hannity ended the interview by saying: "Congressman, you are a total waste of time. I'm moving on because our audience deserves better....I tried to give you a fair shot."

In response, Ellison said: "No, you didn't."