Whoopi Goldberg sparked controversy on Thursday when she made a crude joke about the hypothetical murder of President-elect Donald Trump during a segment on ABC’s The View. The conversation centered around Elon Musk’s growing political influence and his role in the debate over a government spending bill.
“I think Elon Musk believes he’s president,” Goldberg said during the discussion. “I’ve been saying it for a while. I do.”
Her comment came as the hosts were discussing a recent bipartisan agreement aimed at preventing a partial government shutdown, which ultimately failed after GOP opposition. Musk, a vocal supporter of Trump, had been one of the most outspoken critics of the bill.
As the conversation continued, co-host Joy Behar raised the possibility that Musk and Vice President-elect JD Vance were working together to take the presidency from Trump. In response, Goldberg made a jarring joke: “Hey, you know who [Trump]; stay away from the stairways.”
Her comment was met with laughter and applause from the audience. Goldberg frequently refers to Trump as “you know who” to downplay his name.
She further explained her remark, saying, “Because, you know, people put their leg out to trip you going down the stairs. Watch out.”
After the commercial break, Goldberg clarified that her comment was not meant seriously. She compared it to how her cat sometimes tries to jump in front of her while she’s descending stairs. “No one wants anything done to the president,” she added, attempting to downplay the controversy.
Her joke comes amid growing concerns about threats to former President Trump’s safety. CNN commentator Scott Jennings pointed out that Goldberg’s remarks came on the same day that the Wall Street Journal published a report questioning President Biden’s leadership and suggesting the White House has been shielding him during his term.
Goldberg’s comments also followed two assassination attempts on Trump earlier this year. In September, Ryan Routh allegedly waited for hours with a rifle near Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Fla. Routh fired at Trump before fleeing the scene. He has pleaded not guilty to charges, including attempting to assassinate a presidential candidate.
In July, another suspect, Thomas Crooks, attempted to kill Trump during a rally in Butler, Pa., injuring several people. Crooks was shot dead by law enforcement.
A congressional task force is currently investigating both assassination attempts.
