Oprah Winfrey, who once floated the idea that Donald Trump might one day be a good president, railed against him Wednesday night during an unexpected appearance at the Democratic National Convention.
“We know all the old tricks and tropes that are designed to distract us from what actually matters,” Winfrey told the crowd at the United Center. “But we are beyond ridiculous tweets and lies and foolery. These are complicated times, people, and they require adult conversation. And I welcome those conversations because civilized debate is vital to democracy, and it is the best of America.”
In case you were not sure whom she’s referring to, Winfrey mocked what sounded like a Donald Trump campaign line.
“Now, there’s a certain candidate that says if we just go to the polls this one time, that we’ll never have to do it again. Well, you know what? You’re looking at a registered independent who’s proud to vote again and again and again because I’m an American. And that’s what Americans do. Voting is the best of America.”
Oh, and she also didn’t have any love for her Trump-lite running mate JD Vance who was taking heat last week for his “childless cat lady” remarks.
“When a house is on fire, we don’t ask about the homeowners’ race or religion,” Winfrey said. “We don’t wonder who their partner is or how they voted no. We just try to do the best we can to save them. And if the place happens to belong to a childless cat lady. Well, we try to get that cat out too. Cause we are a country of people who work hard for the money. We wish our brothers and sisters well. And we pray for peace.”
The Trump campaign responded to Winfrey’s comments by tweeting a 2000 letter where the talk show host said the then-reality television star would make an excellent president.
“Too bad we’re not running for office,” Winfrey wrote. “What a team!”
“I might have thought it back then,” Winfrey said in a 2023 interview. “I might have thought it 23 years ago.”
Trump made his own move to Keep the 2024 Dumpster Fire Burning while attending a campaign rally in Asheboro, N.C., later on Saturday.
Speaking to the audience in Chicago, Winfrey said: “Most of all, in leadership and in life, you know, this is true, that decency and respect are on the ballot in 2024. And, and just plain common sense over loyalty to any individual.”
