"The View" co-host Whoopi Goldberg expressed outrage over the Democratic Party's push to convince President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race, accusing them of sending a "horrific" message about ageism.
"The View" co-host Whoopi Goldberg ignited a firestorm on Monday as she vehemently denounced the Democratic Party's public pressure campaign to get President Biden to step down from the 2024 presidential race. Goldberg's comments ignited a heated debate on the show, sparking discussions about ageism in politics.
Goldberg expressed her anger over the public nature of the pressure campaign, calling it "horrific" and suggesting that it sent a harmful message about older individuals' abilities. She argued, "The messaging that we have put out to people over a certain age is horrific. We have basically said, 'Hey, you know what? We kind of think if you're over a certain age, you don't really have what it takes to do the job that you're doing.'"
Whoopi Goldberg Slams Democratic Pressure Campaign, Criticizes Age Bias
Goldberg's outburst came just hours after President Biden announced his withdrawal from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. The announcement followed weeks of speculation and internal pressure from within the Democratic Party, prompting concerns about Biden's age and perceived cognitive decline.
Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former aide to President Trump, defended the pressure campaign, arguing that the presidency "is so different than any other job." Griffin suggested that the physical and cognitive demands of the presidency necessitate a higher level of scrutiny for older candidates.
Whoopi Goldberg Slams Democratic Pressure Campaign, Criticizes Age Bias
However, Goldberg pushed back, asserting that the focus on Biden's age was disrespectful and unfair. "I'm not saying he's perfect. But what I'm saying is, the fact that you have shown this kind of bias against people of a certain age, that's what really pissed me off," she said.
Goldberg also criticized any potential candidates considering challenging Harris, particularly Senator Joe Manchin. "I am trusting that we're not going to have a problem here because this is what everybody said they wanted to happen. Mr. Manchin, don't even think about it," Goldberg said.
Whoopi Goldberg Slams Democratic Pressure Campaign, Criticizes Age Bias
Co-host Sunny Hostin echoed Goldberg's sentiments, telling Manchin to "take a seat." Goldberg added, "I started to speak as if I was a speaking head for the Democrats. I'm a speaking head for Whoopi, sit down."
The debate over Biden's age and fitness for office has sparked a broader conversation about ageism in politics. Goldberg's comments have resonated with many who feel that older individuals are often unfairly dismissed or marginalized.
