Whoopi Goldberg Faces Backlash After Criticizing Donald Trump’s Granddaughter’s RNC Speech
In a recent episode of “The View,” Whoopi Goldberg stirred up controversy with her comments about Kai Trump, the 17-year-old granddaughter of former President Donald Trump. During the Republican National Convention, Kai gave a speech about her grandfather, which Goldberg did not hesitate to critique, sparking a wave of backlash and support on social media.
The Controversial Comment
On Thursday’s episode of “The View,” Goldberg expressed her skepticism about Kai Trump’s speech, suggesting that it was a strategic move by Trump’s team to “humanize” the former president. “I know his grandchild was up on the thing and they’re trying to humanize [Trump] and change your idea about who this guy is,” Goldberg said. “Don’t fall for that.”
Whoopi Goldberg just attacked President Trump's 17 year old granddaughter.
This is classless, she should be fired. pic.twitter.com/tvafqhpqAS
— Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) July 19, 2024
Social Media Erupts
Goldberg’s remarks quickly triggered a firestorm on social media. Trump supporters and various users were quick to denounce her comments, accusing her of attacking a teenager. “The View needs to be canceled. Whoopi Goldberg has hit a new low. Now she’s going after a 17-year-old?” one person wrote on X, formerly Twitter, alongside a clip of Goldberg’s remarks. “Don’t humanize him? He’s a human.”
Another user, ACT for America founder Brigitte Gabriel, tweeted, “This is classless, she should be fired.” The sentiment was echoed by others, with one user stating, “Whoopi Goldberg mocked Trump’s 17-year-old granddaughter’s speech. She’s going after a minor. Absolutely sick.”
Support for Whoopi
Despite the backlash, many defended Goldberg, arguing that her comments were not an attack on Kai Trump but rather a critique of the political strategy behind the speech. “She did no such thing,” one X user declared in defense of Goldberg. Another supporter praised her, writing, “Whoopi telling it like it is.”
A third commenter advised critics simply to stop watching the show: “As simple as this…quit watching!!!”
Kai Trump’s Speech at the RNC
During her speech at the GOP convention, Kai Trump portrayed her grandfather as a caring and normal family man. She shared anecdotes about their bond over golf, his interest in her school life, and his loving nature. “A lot of people have put my grandpa through hell and he’s still standing,” Kai said, addressing the audience in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “Grandpa, you are such an inspiration and I love you. The media makes my grandpa seem like a different person, but I know him for who he is.”
Kai continued, “He’s very caring and loving. He truly wants the best for this country and he will fight every single day to make America great again.”
The Debate Over Political Exploitation
Goldberg’s comments touched on a broader debate about the use of family members in political campaigns. Critics argue that featuring family members, especially young ones, can be a tactic to soften the public image of controversial figures. Supporters of such speeches claim they provide a more personal and relatable view of politicians.
Public Figures Weigh In
The controversy has drawn comments from various public figures and commentators. Some have called for more respectful discourse, especially when it involves minors, while others believe that political figures and their families are fair game for critique given their public roles.
The View’s Stance
“The View” has often been a platform for heated political discussions, and Goldberg’s latest comments are no exception. The show continues to attract both criticism and praise for its hosts’ outspoken opinions.
Goldberg’s Response
As of now, Whoopi Goldberg has not issued a public response to the backlash. It remains to be seen whether she will address the controversy in a future episode of “The View” or through other means.
Celebrity and Political Reactions
Celebrities and political commentators have also weighed in on the issue, adding to the mix of opinions and reactions. Some have called for a more nuanced understanding of Goldberg’s critique, while others have firmly sided with either Goldberg or her critics.
Looking Ahead
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and divides in American politics, particularly in how public figures and their families are portrayed and perceived. As the 2024 presidential race heats up, similar controversies are likely to continue, with social media playing a central role in shaping public opinion.
FAQs
What did Whoopi Goldberg say about Kai Trump’s speech? Goldberg suggested that Kai Trump’s speech at the RNC was a ploy to humanize Donald Trump and change public perception of him.
Why did Goldberg’s comments spark backlash? Many people felt that Goldberg’s remarks were an unfair attack on a 17-year-old, with some calling for her to be fired from “The View.”
Did Goldberg attack Kai Trump personally? Supporters of Goldberg argue that her comments were not a personal attack on Kai Trump but rather a critique of the political strategy behind her speech.
How did Kai Trump describe her grandfather in her speech? Kai portrayed Donald Trump as a caring and loving grandfather, sharing personal anecdotes about their relationship and his supportive nature.
What has been the response from social media? Reactions have been mixed, with some criticizing Goldberg and others defending her right to express her opinion.
Has Whoopi Goldberg responded to the backlash? As of now, Goldberg has not publicly responded to the controversy surrounding her comments.
