Joy Reid Sparks Controversy Over VP Pick Remarks

TikTok Comments Ignite Backlash

MSNBC host Joy Reid has drawn criticism after reacting to Vice President Kamala Harris’ choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. In a TikTok video, Reid shared her thoughts on the selection process, stating that she had expected Arizona Senator Mark Kelly to be the preferred choice.

Reid argued that Kelly would have been the “most conventionally safe pick” due to his status as a former astronaut and his position in a border state, which could have strengthened Harris’ stance on immigration. She praised Kelly’s wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, for her advocacy against gun violence, calling his background “a cool story to tell.”

However, it was her remark that Kelly is “White. Super white. Like a mayonnaise sandwich on Wonder Bread white” that sparked outrage online. Critics took to social media to call the comment “racist” and questioned whether similar remarks about another racial group would be tolerated.

One critic wrote, “Could you imagine if this was reversed?” while others tagged MSNBC, demanding a response from the network. Neither Reid nor MSNBC have publicly addressed the controversy.

Evaluating the Alternatives

Reid also weighed in on other potential VP picks, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, whom she considered a riskier choice due to his policies on education, environmental issues, and the Israel-Palestine conflict.

As for Walz, she described him as a “very popular governor” and a “great communicator,” praising Harris for choosing a candidate based on personal conviction rather than political pressure. “This is VP Harris owning it and owning her strength,” Reid said.

Political Reactions

Despite being passed over, Kelly publicly endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket, stating on X, “Vice President @KamalaHarris and Governor @Tim_Walz are going to move us forward… Gabby Giffords and I are ready to do everything we can to help them win.”

Meanwhile, Republican VP nominee JD Vance attacked Walz over his military record, claiming he “abandoned” his National Guard unit before its deployment to Iraq.

Summary

Joy Reid’s reaction to Kamala Harris’ VP pick has ignited controversy, particularly over her description of Senator Mark Kelly’s race. Critics accused her of making a racially insensitive remark, while supporters defended her analysis of the Democratic ticket. Reid ultimately praised Walz as a strong, safe choice, while Republicans have taken aim at his record. The controversy surrounding the VP selection continues to fuel heated debate as the election nears