Whoopi Goldberg defended Carrie Underwood’s decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, despite the backlash from some critics. Goldberg expressed her belief that public figures, like Underwood, have the right to make their own decisions, including choosing where they perform. She supported Underwood’s choice by saying, “If I believe I have the right to make up my mind to go perform someplace, I believe [she has] the same right. I have to support.” Goldberg emphasized the importance of respecting individuals’ rights, even if she personally disagreed with the event.
However, Goldberg also made it clear that she had no interest in attending or watching Trump’s inauguration, noting that it coincided with Martin Luther King Jr. Day. “It doesn’t mean I’m particularly interested. I won’t be watching, but that’s just me,” she stated.
Goldberg’s comments sparked mixed reactions from her fellow The View cohosts. Alyssa Farah Griffin supported Underwood’s right to perform, stressing her opposition to efforts to boycott artists based on their political views. On the other hand, Joy Behar and Sunny Hostin raised concerns about the message such performances could send in light of Trump’s controversial presidency.
Behar argued that supporting Trump, particularly through public events like the inauguration, could validate his presidency and actions, saying, “How do you love your country and support and normalize someone who is a convicted felon and really wants to destroy the country, in my opinion.” While she did not want to suppress Underwood’s right to perform, Behar made it clear she personally wouldn’t have taken part.
Hostin echoed Behar’s sentiments, agreeing that performing at the event could potentially legitimize Trump, but also expressed her belief in free speech and artistic rights.
Goldberg concluded that the debate surrounding the inauguration and its performers would likely continue in the coming days, indicating that there would be further discussions about the implications of such events.