In a fiery response to George Clooney’s recent appearance on 60 Minutes, Donald Trump didn’t hold back, slamming the actor as a “second-rate movie star.”
The actor had made waves with comments about the Trump administration, especially regarding his decision to withdraw support for Joe Biden.
Trump, not one to stay silent, took to Truth Social to air his grievances, calling out Clooney and accusing him of playing a role in Biden’s political troubles.
Clooney’s Criticism of the Biden Administration
During his 60 Minutes interview, Clooney, who is known for his outspoken political views, spoke candidly about his disillusionment with the Democratic Party.
In particular, he explained why he felt the need to publish a damning op-ed in the New York Times titled “I Love Joe Biden. But We Need a New Nominee.”
Clooney expressed disappointment in Biden’s leadership, particularly after a fundraiser in June 2024, where he said he was struck by the president’s “incapacities.”
“I feel like there was a lot of cowardice in my party, and I had to tell the truth,” Clooney said, acknowledging that while he still respected Biden, he could no longer defend the president’s record.
Trump’s Heated Response on Social Media
Trump’s reaction was swift and pointed. He blasted 60 Minutes for giving Clooney a platform, calling him a “failed political pundit” and criticizing the show for what he described as a “puff piece.”
He took aim at Clooney’s past support for Biden and his eventual shift away from the president, implying the actor’s loyalty was fleeting.
Trump also brought up Clooney’s previous backing of Kamala Harris, claiming that the actor had been pushed to support her “under orders from the Obama camp,” only to realize it was a poor choice.
The former president didn’t stop there, referring to the 60 Minutes interview as a “fraudulent” moment in broadcast history and accusing the network of misleading the public.
Trump also took aim at Clooney’s press agent, suggesting that Clooney’s media presence was largely manufactured.
Clooney’s View on McCarthyism and the Press
Clooney didn’t just take shots at Biden and Trump, however.
He also voiced concern about the state of the press in the United States, drawing parallels between McCarthyism in the 1950s and the current political climate. “Governments don’t like the freedom of the press.
They never have,” Clooney said, arguing that the press is often attacked regardless of political affiliation.
The actor also discussed his concerns about the relationship between government and media, referencing a $15 million donation made by ABC News to settle a defamation lawsuit filed by Trump.
He also touched on the ongoing legal battles surrounding CBS News’ editing of Harris’ interview with Trump, which, according to the actor, was edited to put the former president at a disadvantage during the election.
Clooney Defends Journalistic Integrity
Clooney’s commentary didn’t stop at just politics. He also discussed the challenges journalists face in today’s media landscape.
“When the other three estates fail, when the judiciary and the executive and the legislative branches fail us, the fourth estate has to succeed,” he said, emphasizing the critical role of journalism in holding power accountable.
The actor highlighted recent protests within major newspapers like the LA Times and Washington Post, where staff have pushed back against what they see as growing political influence in editorial decisions.
Clooney’s remarks came at a time when some journalists are voicing concerns over the erosion of journalistic freedoms, particularly in the face of increasing corporate and political pressures.
Clooney’s Message to Trump
As for his personal message to Trump, Clooney didn’t directly address him by name but did have a pointed remark for the former president.
“Good for you,” Clooney said. “I hope you do well because our country needs it, and we will meet you in 3.5 years and see where we go next.”
It’s clear that Clooney, ever the outspoken figure, remains committed to his values and willing to speak out, regardless of the political fallout.
Meanwhile, Trump’s continued attacks on his critics, including Clooney, show no sign of slowing down as the political battle rages on.