Adam Carr, the ex-boyfriend of slain National Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom, spoke to CNN about her frustrations regarding their deployment. Beckstrom, a West Virginia National Guard member who was killed in the line of duty, reportedly felt that being stationed near Washington, D.C., during Thanksgiving week left her unable to meaningfully contribute.

In an interview with CNN following her death, Carr recounted that Beckstrom expressed feeling “pointless” and confined by federal restrictions. She mentioned local residents spitting at them, cursing them, and throwing objects while they were limited in their ability to intervene or enforce law.

CNN reporter Gabe Cohen asked Carr whether Beckstrom believed the mission was legitimate. Carr’s response highlighted her girlfriend’s sense of betrayal over being denied a role where she could actually make a difference.

This interview raises questions about how CNN chooses its story angles, especially given reports that Beckstrom had allegedly volunteered for this assignment despite concerns it might politicize her service.