Whoopi Goldberg Calls on Lawmakers to Give Up Pay During Government Shutdown

Whoopi Goldberg isn’t mincing words when it comes to Washington.

During the October 15 episode of “The View”, the 69-year-old host called on both Republicans and Democrats to refuse their salaries while the government remains shut down. The conversation started during a Hot Topics segment on press outlets rejecting the White House’s new media requirements. As the discussion unfolded, Whoopi pivoted to the ongoing shutdown, making her bold suggestion.

“I want to make a suggestion, ’cause you know, we’re still in the middle of a shutdown,” Goldberg said. “I have a suggestion: I would like Republicans and Democrats to come together and decide they’re not going to take their salaries.”

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— The View (@TheView) October 15, 2025

Her remarks drew immediate applause from the live studio audience, with co-hosts voicing support for the idea.

“Because … until this affects you the way it’s affecting your constituents, y’all are not going to settle this,” Goldberg continued. “So as an American, I am asking that you not take a salary until you settle this.”

The segment ended with Whoopi emphasizing that many Americans likely share her sentiment, prompting another round of applause.

The shutdown has left hundreds of federal workers furloughed or working without pay — while members of Congress continue to collect their salaries.

Goldberg, an EGOT winner, has been co-hosting ABC’s “The View” since 2007, making her the longest-serving panelist on the Emmy-winning daytime show.