Joy Behar Calls Out Right-Wing Media After Trump’s Re-Election, Urges Media Literacy in Schools

On Wednesday’s episode of The View, co-host Joy Behar voiced strong criticism of right-wing media outlets, holding them accountable following Donald Trump’s re-election as President of the United States. Behar argued that platforms like Fox News and Newsmax contributed to normalizing Trump’s controversial actions and called for a broader effort in the U.S. to combat misinformation.

During the post-election discussion, co-host Sunny Hostin labeled Trump “a complete aberration,” highlighting the unprecedented nature of his political legacy. “He is a politician that is twice impeached,” Hostin emphasized. “How is it that we have normalized someone who tried to start an insurrection, who is an election denier, who is a convicted felon, who has filed for bankruptcy six times?”

Hostin’s comments underscored her disbelief over Trump’s continued appeal to voters despite his controversial history. Behar seized on Hostin’s remarks to shift the focus toward the role of right-wing media in shaping public perception. “And can we not let Fox News off the hook, please,” Behar said, adding, “and Newsmax, and all the fake news that’s been going out there.”

She criticized these outlets for spreading misinformation, suggesting their narratives helped fuel Trump’s return to the White House. As a former teacher, Behar proposed an educational approach to combat misinformation, pointing to Finland as an example where young children are taught to identify fake news. “You know, one of the things that we need to do, and it’s not to abolish the Department of Education—as a former teacher, believe me, this is, he’s talking about doing that, told Entertainment Weekly.

Behar remarked, referencing Trump’s stance on reducing the role of federal education. “In Finland, kids in nursery school are learning to discern between fake news and real news,” she continued. “They should be teaching that in this country. Teach children tolerance. Teach them to think critically.” Behar’s comments reflected her belief that media literacy should be integrated into U.S. education to help future generations navigate misinformation and develop critical thinking skills.

To close the segment, co-host Anna Navarro expressed gratitude to outgoing President Joe Biden, commending him for his service and legislative achievements. “I want to end by thanking Joe Biden for having given us four years of decency, a moral compass, legislative accomplishments that help Americans,” she said, also acknowledging Biden’s efforts in leading the country through the COVID-19 pandemic. “So thanks, and having gotten us out of COVID,” she added.

The panel concluded the discussion with a collective show of appreciation for Biden’s term. “Bravo,” the hosts agreed, underscoring their support for Biden’s leadership. The discussion on The View highlighted the co-hosts’ concerns about the influence of media on public opinion and the need for critical thinking education. As Trump prepares to re-enter the Oval Office, Behar’s call to action underscores a growing demand for tools to discern truth from misinformation and raises questions about the role of media in shaping democratic processes.