Just in time for Independence Day, “The View” co-host Joy Behar has provided Americans with a familiar holiday tradition: complaining about America while enjoying the benefits of living in it.
During a recent episode of ABC’s “The View,” Behar reacted to comments from comedian Larry David, who said he was “embarrassed to be an American” after attending President Trump’s UFC event at the White House. Rather than push back on the statement, Behar enthusiastically agreed.
That alone was enough to spark debate, but she didn’t stop there.
Behar launched into a lengthy discussion about immigration and her family’s Italian roots, arguing that earlier generations of immigrants came to America grateful for the opportunities the country provided. She then attempted to connect that history to her criticism of President Trump’s immigration policies.
“I mean, my family came over here, like, 100 years ago,” Behar said before discussing how Italian immigrants arrived from poverty and embraced America.
Then came the line that raised eyebrows across social media.
“And of course Larry is embarrassed to be an American,” Behar declared. “In that way, we should all be.”
That comment immediately generated backlash online, particularly given the timing. As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary festivities continue, many found it strange to hear a television personality suggest that embarrassment, rather than pride, should be the appropriate national emotion.
Ironically, one of Behar’s co-hosts offered a dramatically different perspective. Alyssa Farah Griffin stated that she is “very, very proud to be an American,” providing a reminder that not everyone on the panel shares Behar’s gloomy view of the country.
The exchange highlighted a growing divide in American culture. For some commentators, nearly every patriotic celebration is viewed through a political lens. A UFC event at the White House becomes a national embarrassment. A celebration of America’s history becomes controversial. Even expressions of national pride are sometimes treated with suspicion.
Larry David’s original comments drew criticism from media personalities as well. Megyn Kelly argued that the comedian’s reaction reflected a disconnect from many ordinary Americans who enjoy sports like UFC and do not see attending such events as a source of shame.
Kelly suggested David was looking down on a largely working-class audience and reacting negatively simply because the event did not align with his own preferences.
That criticism resonated with many Americans who see these recurring attacks on patriotism as increasingly detached from reality.
The truth is that millions of Americans remain proud of their country despite its imperfections. They celebrate Independence Day because they recognize the extraordinary freedoms, opportunities, and prosperity that America has provided for generations.
If Joy Behar and Larry David are embarrassed to be Americans, that is certainly their right. The Constitution protects their ability to say so.
The rest of the country is equally free to fire up the grill, wave the flag, enjoy the fireworks, and celebrate America anyway.
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