The NAACP has criticized Phil McGraw, known as Dr. Phil, for his remarks at former President Donald Trump’s rally at Madison Square Garden. McGraw argued that America was “built on hard work.”
McGraw, who endorsed Trump after previously interviewing him, linked “hard work” to his Merit Street Media company. He expressed concerns about “cancel culture” and emphasized effort and talent over DEI initiatives.
“We didn’t choose the name for that by random… this country was built on hard work, added value and talent. Not on equal outcome, not on DEI, this country was built on hard work,” McGraw said.
The NAACP challenged McGraw’s view of America’s history, claiming that the nation’s foundation relied on the forced labor of Black, Brown, and immigrant individuals.
“This country was absolutely built on hard work Dr. Phil…on the backs of Black, Brown, and immigrants from all across this WORLD! Many of which who were forced to do so! SLAVERY,” the NAACP stated. “Let us know when you’re ready to tell the WHOLE story.”
Keith Boykin, a former Clinton aide, echoed the criticisms, noting the critical role of unpaid Black laborers. He also criticized Trump’s inherited wealth and Dr. Phil’s rise to fame through “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”
America was built by “unpaid Black people who were exploited by rich white guys who took the credit,” Boykin said.
“Meanwhile, Trump inherited $400 million from his KKK daddy and Dr. Phil became famous because a Black woman gave him a platform,” Boykin added.
