Joe Scarborough, host of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” is facing intense scrutiny following his recent meeting with President-elect Donald Trump. During the Tuesday broadcast, Scarborough downplayed the backlash, stating there was a "massive disconnect" between social media reactions and the real-world support he received.
Scarborough and his co-host, Mika Brzezinski, revealed their meeting with Trump during the show. This meeting was intended to "reopen" lines of communication as Trump gears up for his anticipated return to office. Such intentions, though, drew immediate criticism, especially since both hosts have previously positioned themselves as staunch critics of Trump.
Following the meeting's announcement, viewers and critics quickly expressed outrage. Many accused Scarborough and Brzezinski of compromising their principles to curry favor with Trump or simply increasing show ratings. Social media platforms lit up with negative comments, and even political figures aired their discontent. For example, former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger remarked, "Morning Joe going to Mar-a-Lago was not a good start to the week," highlighting the disillusionment many feel about their overtures to Trump.
Despite this, Scarborough insisted the meeting wasn't about ratings. He emphasized the numerous supportive messages he received via phone calls from friends and viewers worldwide, claiming they demonstrated the disconnect between online criticism and real-life sentiments. He expressed gratitude to these supporters, trying to steer the narrative away from negativity.
Brzezinski echoed Scarborough's sentiments. She added, "All of us will do the best we can do, and we’re all working toward a healthier America.” Her remark aligned with Scarborough's offering of hope for bridging divides among audiences and building stronger communication with political figures, even those they had historically opposed.
Some accounts suggest Scarborough and Brzezinski's visit to Trump was driven partly by fear of retribution from the incoming administration, particularly after their constant jabs at the former president. This notion was heightened by speculation from media analysts and commentators who noted the hostile relationship Trump has maintained with much of the mainstream media.
Critics have pointed to this meeting as capitulation, dubbing it as 'kissing the ring.' A viral social media post illustrated this view, purporting to show Trump mocking Scarborough and Brzezinski as if they were subservient, but subsequent fact-checking revealed the post was fabricated. Trump never actually made these comments.
While Scarborough remained firm on his decision to engage with Trump, it remains to be seen how this move will affect their show’s viewership and credibility. Viewers are evidently divided, with some lauding the initiative as necessary for improved dialogue, whilst others see it as hypocrisy.
To wrap up his comments on the backlash, Scarborough reiterated, "Take it day by day, people,” hinting at his belief in gradual improvement within the political climate. Stepping out of the internet's sharpest criticisms, Scarborough intends to pave what he hopes to be fruitful pathways toward consensus.
