UPDATE: Whoopi Goldberg has raised eyebrows with her latest comments regarding President Donald Trump’s announcement of a Christmas bonus for military personnel, suggesting it may be a “bribe” to ensure loyalty. During an episode of The View aired Thursday, Goldberg questioned the motives behind Trump’s “warrior dividend,” which promises nearly 1.5 million military service members a one-time payment of $1,776.
In a speech delivered Wednesday night, Trump touted the cash bonuses as a gesture of appreciation for the nation’s military, celebrating the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. “And the checks are already on the way,” Trump assured, attributing the funding to tariffs and the recently passed GOP spending and tax bill.
Goldberg’s skepticism was palpable as she remarked, “What he’s doing is thinking, ‘If I make sure the soldiers have what they need, they’ll back me and what I want, see?’” Her co-hosts on The View echoed her concerns, with former Trump aide Alyssa Farah Griffin defending the initiative as one positive aspect of Trump’s presidency. “I want to see them get it first,” Goldberg insisted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support for all Americans, not just military personnel.
The segment took a sharp turn when Marine Dakota Meyer, responding to Goldberg’s comments on Fox News, dismissed her relevance, stating, “The great thing is that my daughters and this next generation will grow up and not even know who Whoopi Goldberg is.”
As the debate intensifies, the implications of Trump’s military bonuses are clear: they could sway public perception and support among service members during a politically charged period. The White House has not yet responded to inquiries regarding Goldberg’s comments.
This developing story underscores the ongoing tensions between celebrity voices and political narratives, particularly concerning military support in a polarized climate. As the nation approaches the holiday season, all eyes will be on how these bonuses affect service members and their families, and whether they will indeed foster the loyalty Trump aims for.
Stay tuned for updates on this story as it unfolds.