Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and millions of Americans are gearing up to enjoy hearty meals, toast with loved ones, and reflect on their gratitude. However, not everyone is embracing the spirit of unity this holiday season.
The topic has even found its way into celebrity discussions, with outspoken opinions from personalities like Sunny Hostin on The View. The debate over whether politics should influence family gatherings has sparked heated conversations across the country.
Co-host Sara Haines made her stance clear, stating, “I would never let politics be the reason I don’t show up to see my family because they won’t always be there.” Haines emphasized the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones.
Sunny Hostin doesn’t agree
Sunny Hostin, however, offered a contrasting perspective, pointing out the unique challenges presented by the political climate. “I’m going to disagree,” Hostin said. “I really do feel that this candidate, President-elect Trump, is just a different type of candidate. From the things he’s said and the things he’s done, and the things he will do, it’s more of a moral issue for me.”
Sunny Hostin expanded on her stance, explaining why she believes the issue goes beyond politics. “I think it’s more of a moral issue for other people,” she shared. “When people feel that someone voted not only against their families but against them and against people they love, I think it’s okay to take a beat.” Hostin emphasized that for some, this is a matter of self-preservation and protecting their values.
Whoopi had something to say as well
Whoopi Goldberg chimed in to support Hostin’s perspective, adding her signature thoughtful insight. “Somebody who tells me that my child is wrong because of how he or she feels, that tells me that they shouldn’t be allowed to be who they are with my permission, I have to question,” Goldberg said.
She expressed her reluctance to subject her family, particularly her gay child, to a potentially hostile environment. “I don’t want to put my kid in that position. I don’t want to put my gay child in a position where she has to sit with someone who doesn’t understand her and feels like it’s okay to just blurt all that out,” she explained.
Not everyone agrees
Not everyone is on board with this perspective. Dave Rubin, host of The Rubin Report, took issue with the idea of excluding family over political differences. “Thanksgiving is coming, and that’s when we here in America sit down with friends and family, and we eat and we drink and we celebrate freedom,” Rubin said. He praised the holiday as a time to reflect on the blessings of nearly 250 years of American history. “Unless you’re someone on The View, in which case you shouldn’t invite people you like and you should probably ruin the day for everybody,” he added sarcastically.
This clash of opinions underscores the growing divide in how families navigate political and moral conflicts during traditionally unifying moments. As Thanksgiving approaches, the decision to embrace differences or set boundaries will likely continue to be a polarizing conversation at tables across the nation.
