The potential pairing of Carrie Underwood and Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration has become the latest political-artistic skirmish, and “The View,” naturally, has become the front line. Tuesday’s episode saw co-hosts Joy Behar and Alyssa Farah Griffin clashing over the hypothetical harmony (or disharmony, depending on your perspective) of such a performance.
Griffin, ever the pragmatist, framed the issue through a career lens. For Underwood, aligning with Trump, regardless of personal beliefs, could be a savvy business move, solidifying support within a significant demographic. Griffin’s stance leans toward consumer-driven protest: If you don’t like it, don’t buy the music. Fair enough, but it’s a bit like saying, “Don’t worry about the fire, just let the house burn down—you can always build another one.” Sometimes, a little public outcry is necessary to prevent the flames from spreading.
Behar, while respecting artistic freedom, took a different tack. She expressed her personal reluctance to participate in such an event, suggesting that doing so might normalize what she views as a dangerous political climate. Her point raises a critical question: Does patriotism demand blind allegiance, even to figures one finds deeply problematic? The debate recalled the Dixie Chicks controversy, illustrating the tightrope artists walk when their political views collide with a segment of their audience.
Ultimately, “The View” segment mirrored the larger national conversation. It’s a tough call. On one hand, artists deserve the freedom to perform where they choose. On the other, actions have consequences, and aligning with a controversial figure can send a potent message, intended or not.
“The View” airs weekdays on ABC.