Last Friday, the co-hosts met privately with the former president to discuss crucial issues as he gears up for a second term, marking their first interaction in seven years.

This initiative was part of an attempt to "restart communications" and explore a "new approach," despite their historically strained relations with Trump.

Exploring a Fraught Relationship Amid Political Tensions

The discussions included topics such as abortion, mass deportation, and potential political retributions, areas where Trump’s policies have previously ignited significant public debate.

Scarborough and Brzezinski, who have maintained a critical stance towards Trump over the years, reassured their viewers that their journalistic scrutiny would persist despite the recent meeting.

Peers and the public have criticized their meeting, accusing it of normalizing Trump’s controversial presidency and undermining journalistic integrity. Media professionals and social platforms have strongly echoed this sentiment.

Media Critics and Viewers React Strongly to Morning Joe’s Move

High-profile critics like Sunny Hostin from "The View" and MSNBC’s own Katie Phang condemned the meeting, suggesting that effective journalism does not require such conciliatory gestures. Journalism professor Jeff Jarvis and various users on social media platforms labeled the meeting a betrayal of democratic values and journalistic duty.

In defense, Brzezinski drew parallels to her father’s diplomatic engagements, arguing that challenging conversations are part of journalistic responsibilities.

On their show, she questioned the criticism, positing that avoiding dialogue would be a disservice to the public and journalistic practice.

The Continuation of Critical Coverage Despite Backlash

Scarborough emphasized on their program that their intent was not to normalize Trump but to provide deeper insights into a polarizing figure. "Don’t be mistaken, we are not here to defend or normalize Donald Trump. We are here to report on him and to hopefully provide you insights that are going to better equip all of us in understanding these deeply unsettling times," he stated.

Despite their explanations, the uproar has led to a viewership backlash, with some calling for a boycott of "Morning Joe," which had been enjoying high ratings following extensive coverage of Trump’s legal challenges in previous years.

Democratic Leanings of Morning Joe Clash With Viewer Expectations

The program’s shift towards a more Democratic establishment viewpoint, particularly during the 2024 election cycle where they notably supported Kamala Harris, has also amplified viewer discontent. Critics argue that the hosts’ meeting with Trump contradicts the show’s recent political leanings.

Comments from viewers on platforms like X and statements from media critics suggest that Scarborough and Brzezinski’s actions may have damaged their credibility and that of their show. "Making the pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago is kissing the ring #MorningJoe, normalizing Trump, surrendering in advance regardless of how you try to justify it," tweeted X user 'Wendy Spirit.'