Dr. Phil Faces Backlash for Anti-DEI Speech at Trump Rally, Sparking Social Media Outrage
4 min read
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Talk show personality Dr. Phil McGraw has sparked significant backlash online after delivering an anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) speech at Donald Trump’s campaign rally at Madison Square Garden on October 27. During his address, McGraw criticized DEI initiatives, stating, “This country was built on hard work, added value, and talent, not on equal outcome, not on DEI.” His remarks quickly became a focal point of criticism on social media platforms, with many users pointing to the irony of Dr. Phil’s own career path and its connections to DEI principles.
The speech sparked a fierce reaction, with Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) users weighing in. Instagram user @becomingchanel voiced frustration over Dr. Phil’s comments, pointing out that Oprah Winfrey was instrumental in making him a household name. “We wouldn’t even know you if Oprah didn’t make you a household name… you utilized the h*ll out of DEI,” they wrote. Another user on X echoed this sentiment, commenting, “Dr. Phil was Oprah’s DEI hire… there were more credible psychologists she could have elevated.”
Dr. Phil: This country was built on hard work.. Not on DEI pic.twitter.com/QngDJKbDnc
— Acyn (@Acyn) October 27, 2024
Many other social media users criticized Dr. Phil, accusing him of hypocrisy and a lack of self-awareness. “Says the white guy who was handed a career by a black woman,” one user commented, while another observed, “Why Dr. Phil would torpedo his career for a losing campaign is beyond my realm of comprehension.” Others mocked his reputation, labeling him a “con artist” and questioning his integrity following his vocal support of Trump and opposition to DEI.
Dr. Phil’s comments came as he praised Trump’s resilience, referring to the former president as “tough as an old army boot.” He noted that Trump had been “impeached, indicted, raided, railroaded, shot, and sued” but was still “standing.” McGraw claimed that Trump supporters faced intimidation and “cancel culture” tactics, including “mob mentality” and “internet power” that left them “excluded” and even “fired or boycotted.” McGraw suggested there is an “imbalance of power” in the U.S., urging people to “close ranks” and resist what he described as “intimidation tactics.”
In a continuation of his remarks, Dr. Phil defended free speech, expressing concern about what he perceives as a “muzzling” of diverse perspectives in the U.S. “Our government has said we will pass no laws to infringe on our freedoms for religion and speech,” he emphasized, while lamenting what he saw as an increase in self-censorship. He further challenged accusations that Trump is a “bully,” arguing instead that Trump is simply “better at debating” than others and is misunderstood.
I just unfollowed him. I stopped watching him years ago, because he became condescending towards his guests.
— Michelle49 (@Michelle496666) October 27, 2024
In a pointed critique of Kamala Harris, Dr. Phil suggested that the Democratic vice-presidential candidate’s race played a role in her political ascent, doubling down on Trump’s past claims that media outlets assisted her during interviews and debates. McGraw also predicted that while celebrities like Beyoncé and George Clooney have endorsed Democratic figures without facing media criticism, his rally appearance would likely make negative headlines.
Dr. Phil was not the only high-profile figure at the rally; Elon Musk, Hulk Hogan, and Dana White also attended, alongside prominent political figures such as Republican Vice Presidential candidate J.D. Vance, Mike Johnson, and Tucker Carlson. In a notable moment, former First Lady Melania Trump appeared at the rally to introduce her husband, adding to the list of surprise appearances.
Ditto! @Oprah please put this damn @DrPhil in his place. He is showing himself to be the worst kind of racist by speaking at Trump’s Nazi rally.
— Susan Robbins (@robbinsmail) October 27, 2024
As Dr. Phil’s comments continue to circulate online, the reaction highlights a cultural divide over DEI principles, with McGraw’s position attracting both support and intense criticism. Social media users remain divided, and the backlash has added to the conversation about free speech, public accountability, and the role of DEI in shaping contemporary public discourse.
This man is supposed to help people with mental health issues?????
— MommaT (@tweetmommybop) October 27, 2024
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Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
