Discussion on Anti-ICE Protests and Political Reactions

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of recent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles has drawn criticism. House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested “tar and feathers” for Newsom during a press conference, which sparked discussions on its implications.

This topic was a focal point on a popular daytime talk show, where Sarah Haines accused former President Donald Trump of excessive spending related to the National Guard and U.S. Marines being deployed to manage the protests that began on June 6th. Haines expressed concern over government resource allocation, pointing out that, while funds appear to be cut from cancer research and school lunches, it still costs taxpayers $136 million to launch military operations without state-level coordination.

“It’s absurd. The biggest casualties here are the people—protesters in the streets,” she emphasized. “We’re not talking about bad actors or anarchists, but peaceful demonstrators and law enforcement. They’re facing off against each other, with injuries resulting from this political game.”

Additionally, Haines criticized the idea of “tar and feathers” as a form of “medieval punishment and torture.”

Goldberg reminded Haines that not so long ago, similar violence was inflicted upon Black Americans, subtly urging her to reconsider the historical context of such statements.

“I mean, this is what happened to Black people across the country,” she remarked, suggesting it might not be the best comparison to make.

Joy Behar added to the conversation by questioning whether Johnson received similar criticism when he previously shared a controversial image of Trump with a mocked-up violent twist. She pointed out Kathy Griffin’s career fallout after her own controversial act of depicting violence against a president.

This episode of the show, The View, is scheduled to air on ABC weekdays starting November 10th.