MSNBC liberal host Joy Reid has recently voiced strong opinions on the Democratic Party’s leadership dynamics and addressed supporters of former President Donald Trump during the holiday season.
In a segment on “The ReidOut,” Reid criticized the Democratic Party for being dominated by long-serving members and influential donors, suggesting that this structure hinders the rise of younger politicians. She stated, “The party is run by donors and consultants and people who are locked in the old ways of doing things.”
Reid highlighted the case of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who was overlooked for a leadership role on the House Oversight Committee in favor of a 74-year-old representative. She argued that such decisions prevent the party from embracing new media platforms that resonate with younger voters.
Reid also addressed the debate over age and leadership within the party, noting that some Democratic governors have refrained from commenting on whether there should be an age limit for future presidential nominees. She emphasized the need for generational change to keep the party relevant and connected with emerging voter bases.
In a separate broadcast leading up to Thanksgiving, Reid delivered a pointed message to Trump supporters. She remarked, “Make your own sandwiches, wipe your own tears, troll amongst yourselves with Elon, and leave us alone.” Reid accused them of idolizing Trump over religious figures and dismissed any expectation of reconciliation from her side. She further stated, “If you expect the 73 million who voted for the prosecutor, not the felon, and particularly the 92% of Black women who voted for Kamala to give you a cookie, a trophy, a hug, or a high five, you might be asking too much.”
Reid concluded by urging Trump supporters to respect the boundaries of those who wish to avoid political debates during the holidays, saying, “Get over it. Stop acting like we owe you.”
Reid delivered an impassioned response during MSNBC’s election night coverage as Donald Trump secured victory in Florida, describing the state as a stronghold for “extremely right-wing fascist” ideals.
During live coverage of the 2024 presidential election, Reid expressed dismay at Florida’s political direction as early results showed Trump taking a commanding lead in the state.
“It’s a pure Project 2025 in miniature in Florida,” Reid said, referring to what she characterized as a blueprint for a “right-wing, fascist type government” that Florida’s leadership represents.
The MSNBC anchor pointed to Trump’s recent public statements, particularly noting his comments about mass deportation and what she termed a “violent start to his dictatorship.” Reid questioned how such rhetoric could still garner substantial voter support.
As election results continued to favor Trump, Reid’s concerns extended beyond Florida. When Texas was called for the Republican nominee, she raised issues about voter suppression, specifically mentioning Black voters in Houston, Texas, who she described as “deeply suppressed.”
The coverage highlighted stark contrasts in media responses to the election results. While Reid voiced concerns on MSNBC, Fox News took a different approach, with their commentators celebrating Trump’s performance. Fox News was the first major network to project Trump’s victory, with anchor Bret Baier describing Trump as the “biggest political phoenix from the ashes” in U.S. political history.
Reid’s comments sparked an immediate reaction from Trump supporters, with some calling for her removal from the panel.
As of late Tuesday night, Trump had secured major victories in several key states, including Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Ohio, along with multiple Southern and Midwestern states. Betting markets showed Trump’s chances of reaching the required 270 electoral votes surpassing 90 percent.
By early morning Wednesday, it was clear that Trump secured a decisive victory, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris to reclaim the White House in a historic political comeback that reshapes American politics.
Trump, 78, surpassed the required 270 electoral votes after winning Wisconsin, marking a remarkable return to power nearly four years after leaving office. The victory makes him both the 45th and 47th president of the United States, an unprecedented distinction in American political history.
Vice President Harris delivered her concession speech at Howard University in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday.
Reid’s position at MSNBC has been undergoing changes. Recent reports suggest that both Reid and her colleague Stephanie Ruhle may face salary cuts to retain their positions as anchors.
As reported in the Ankler newsletter, the network is negotiating new contracts with Reid and Ruhle, which involve lower salaries. This comes after a previous report from the same outlet that popular anchor Rachel Maddow accepted a $5 million cut from her estimated $30 million annual salary to remain with MSNBC.
Reid, the host of “The ReidOut” at 8:00 pm, reportedly earns $3 million annually, according to the Washington Free Beacon. Meanwhile, Ruhle, who hosts The 11th Hour at 11:00 pm on weekdays, is said to earn $2 million per year.
These changes come amidst a viewership crisis for MSNBC. Several of its programs have reached record low ratings following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. Recently, “Alex Wagner Tonight,” “Inside with Jen Psaki,” and “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” have all recorded their lowest ratings to date.
