Donald Trump Lashes Out at Howard Stern for Going ‘Woke’

Former President Donald Trump has found a new target in his ongoing war against what he describes as “woke” culture: longtime radio host and media personality Howard Stern. Trump, who has never been shy about calling out public figures he feels have betrayed their past selves, recently turned his ire toward Stern during one of his rants, criticizing the shock jock for allegedly embracing progressive ideas and straying from his controversial roots.

Stern, once known for his raw, unapologetic radio show that frequently pushed the boundaries of taste and decency, has undergone a public evolution in recent years. The former provocateur, who once courted controversy with his inflammatory comments and often explicit interviews, has shifted toward a more mainstream approach, aligning himself with progressive causes and openly discussing his disdain for Trump and other right-wing figures.

Trump’s Attack

Trump, a frequent guest on Stern’s show in the 1990s and early 2000s, didn’t hold back in his criticism, accusing Stern of selling out and pandering to the “woke mob.”

“Howard Stern used to be a friend of mine, a great guy who wasn’t afraid to say what he thought,” Trump remarked during a recent interview. “Now, he’s completely gone woke, and it’s sad to see what’s happened to him. He’s lost his edge, and it’s a shame because he was a pioneer in the radio world.”

Trump’s comments come amid a broader culture war that the former president and his allies have waged against progressive movements in America. The term “woke” has become a common rallying cry for conservatives, who use it to criticize what they view as an overly politically correct culture that stifles free speech and punishes those who don’t conform to liberal ideals.

For Trump, Stern’s shift represents yet another high-profile figure who has turned against him and aligned with the “woke” agenda—a pattern he believes has become all too common in Hollywood and the media.

Howard Stern’s Transformation

Stern’s evolution from a shock jock to a self-reflective, progressive advocate has been one of the more surprising shifts in modern American media. Known in his early career for crude humor, raunchy interviews, and sharp-tongued critiques, Stern’s show was once the poster child for pushing the limits of free speech on the airwaves.

But in recent years, Stern has taken a different tone. He’s spoken openly about therapy, self-growth, and his changing views on politics and society. The once bombastic host has voiced strong support for Democratic politicians and progressive causes, while also condemning Trump and other right-wing figures.

Stern’s disdain for Trump has been no secret. During Trump’s presidency, Stern repeatedly criticized him, calling his former guest unfit for office and suggesting that his pursuit of the presidency was more about ego than governance. “He just wants attention, and he’s gotten it,” Stern said in one interview. “He doesn’t care about the country.”

Stern’s change of heart has been met with a mixed response from fans. While some appreciate his newfound introspection and willingness to embrace more socially responsible ideas, others feel he’s lost the rebellious spirit that made him a radio icon.

Trump’s Fallout with Former Allies

Trump’s public fallout with Stern is emblematic of a broader pattern. Over the years, Trump has famously fallen out with several former allies and friends, particularly those in the media and entertainment industry. Many of these former relationships began in the New York celebrity circuit, where Trump, Stern, and others frequently rubbed shoulders.

When Stern welcomed Trump on his show in the past, the two seemed to have a mutual respect for each other. Trump’s appearances were often filled with banter, humor, and a relaxed atmosphere. The businessman-turned-politician appeared on Stern’s show multiple times to discuss everything from his personal life to his business empire, with Stern frequently encouraging his guest to share controversial or headline-grabbing details.

But as Trump’s political ambitions grew and Stern’s views evolved, their paths diverged sharply. Stern, once content to play along with Trump’s antics, became one of his most vocal critics during the 2016 election and throughout his presidency. Trump, in turn, saw Stern’s pivot toward more progressive viewpoints as a personal betrayal.

The Broader Culture War

Trump’s attack on Stern comes at a time when the former president is ramping up his criticism of what he sees as “woke” culture in preparation for a potential 2024 run. Trump has repeatedly made it clear that he views the fight against political correctness and progressive ideals as a central part of his platform.

In recent months, Trump has used various platforms, from rallies to interviews, to lash out at figures and institutions he believes are contributing to America’s cultural shift. From Hollywood stars to major corporations, Trump has positioned himself as a defender of traditional values, vowing to combat what he sees as the erosion of free speech and individual rights.

For Trump’s supporters, his criticism of Stern and others like him resonates deeply. They view the rise of progressive culture as a threat to the country’s identity and believe that media figures like Stern are abandoning the very principles that once made them successful.

Stern’s Response

As of now, Stern has not directly responded to Trump’s latest remarks. However, based on his previous statements, it’s likely that Stern is unfazed by Trump’s critique. Over the years, the radio host has made it clear that he’s moved past the controversies that once defined him, and he’s unlikely to return to the days of playing to the shock-and-awe crowd.

Ultimately, the public spat between Trump and Stern is a reflection of the broader divisions in American society. As Trump continues to target those he believes have embraced “woke” culture, Stern’s transformation stands as a reminder of how public figures can evolve over time, for better or worse, depending on one’s perspective.