Palmetto State News

In an appearance on The View, presidential candidate  U.S. Tim Scott (R-SC) delivered a conservative message, receiving a mix of backlash and praise from liberal hosts and guests.

"The concept of American is that we are going to become a more perfect union," Scott said. "But in fact, the challenges that we faced 50 years and 60 years ago should not be the same challenges that we face today."

The View is hosted by Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Sara Haines, Ana Navarro, and Alyssa Farah Griffin. Scott came to share his message of conservatism and joy in his campaign and to talk about comments made recently on the show regarding systemic racism and discrimination. In response to Behar’s questions and comments about the impacts of systemic racism, Scott said he didn’t view the country as failing, but as continually improving.

 “I’m on the show because of the comments made, frankly on this show, that the only way for a young African American kid to be successful in this country is to be the exception and not the rule," Scott said. "That’s a dangerous, offensive, disgusting message to send to our young people today that the only way to succeed is by being the exception.” He spoke about his own background, being raised in poverty by a single mother, and said he believes that hope and honoring the improvements that are being made are a much better viewpoint for Americans than continuing to dwell on areas that might still be lacking.    

Scott debated with Behar on improvements made in racial equality in government and quality of life in the last few years. When the show hosts brought up the fact that Scott was the first black Senator elected from the South in 114 years, he said half of all black Senators had been elected in the past 10 years, “which means that this nation is making measurable progress in real time. If we focus on that and continue to make progress, we will fulfill the notion that this is a nation that can become more perfect.”                           

Scott faced some audience backlash when the subject of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ battle with Disney was raised. Some audience members booed him. Goldberg told the audience “Do not boo. This is The View. We accept we don't have to believe everything people say, but you can't boo people here, please. You cannot do it.”                  

Overall, audience members were very impressed with Scott’s willingness to go head-first into an area not normally welcoming to conservative politicians or views. He was commended across social media for keeping the show polite, cheerful, and respectful while also making his points heard. He made an impression with his comment that "yesterday’s exception is today’s rule,” regarding the potential of young African Americans.