By CNN Staff, August 13, 2025, 7:34 PM EST

In a stunning development, President Donald Trump issued a provocative statement today at a White House press conference, demanding that Whoopi Goldberg, co-host of ABC’s The View, leave the United States immediately. The remarks, delivered with characteristic intensity, have ignited a fierce backlash and escalated tensions between the administration and prominent media figures.

“Whoopi Goldberg has been spreading lies about me and this country for too long,” Trump declared. “She’s not welcome here anymore. Pack your bags and go!” The president’s comments, which came without prior context, appeared to target Goldberg’s recent criticisms of his economic policies and immigration stance on The View. Trump offered no specific justification for his demand, leaving observers to speculate on the motives behind his outburst.

Goldberg, a vocal critic of Trump, responded swiftly on a live broadcast of The View just 30 minutes later, delivering a defiant and cryptic retort. “If you want to use your power to oppress others, I will make public a shocking secret about your plan,” she stated, her voice steady but charged with emotion. “You don’t get to silence me or anyone else.” Her co-hosts, visibly stunned, rallied behind her, with Joy Behar calling Trump’s remarks “a dangerous attack on free speech.” Goldberg’s mention of a “shocking secret” has fueled rampant speculation, though she provided no further details.

The exchange has set social media ablaze, with hashtags like #WhoopiStays and #TrumpVsView trending globally. Supporters of Goldberg argue that Trump’s demand represents an abuse of power, while his base cheers what they see as a bold stand against perceived media bias. Legal experts, however, note that the president has no authority to unilaterally demand a citizen’s departure, raising concerns about the implications of such rhetoric.

The White House has yet to clarify Trump’s statement or respond to Goldberg’s counterclaim. Political analysts suggest this clash could deepen divisions, particularly as Trump navigates a turbulent second term marked by controversies over tariffs and foreign policy. Goldberg’s reference to a “secret plan” has also drawn attention from investigative journalists, who are now pressing for transparency from both sides.

This incident underscores the ongoing friction between Trump and media personalities who challenge his agenda. As the nation braces for potential fallout, all eyes are on Goldberg and whether she will reveal the alleged secret she claims to hold. The View is expected to address the controversy further in tomorrow’s episode, airing at 11 a.m. ET on ABC.