Jessica Tarlov Sparks Controversy Over Comment About Trump: Critics Call for Her Removal

Jessica Tarlov, a Democratic political strategist and regular panelist on Fox News’ The Five, is facing intense criticism following a recent remark that many on social media have described as dangerous and inflammatory. Her statement, made during a discussion about the upcoming 2024 presidential election, has ignited a firestorm of backlash, with some accusing her of using rhetoric that could incite violence.

During her segment, Tarlov was analyzing the current political climate and the matchup between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. It was in that context she said, “This is the chance to put the final nail in the coffin so that you don’t have Donald Trump on the ballot again.”

Although she appeared to be speaking metaphorically — likely referencing Trump’s political career — critics argue the phrasing was irresponsible, especially in light of recent events. Trump has reportedly been the target of multiple assassination attempts within a short span, making any language with violent connotations particularly sensitive.

Tarlov’s comment quickly circulated on social media, with critics — particularly on the right — slamming her for what they perceived as a veiled endorsement of political violence. One popular X (formerly Twitter) user, who posts under the name Common Sense Custodian, wrote, “Absolutely UNACCEPTABLE to speak like this. She needs to be FIRED immediately.”

Others echoed similar sentiments. “I don’t see why they keep her on The Five,” one viewer posted. “I have to check the lineup before watching. She’s the worst.” Another wrote, “Time to fire Jessica or require her to get counseling for her TDS [Trump Derangement Syndrome]. The violent innuendos are a big turn-off.”

Some went even further with personal attacks, highlighting the deeply polarized reaction. Comments like, “This is why I stopped watching Fox News,” and “She’s one of the reasons the network is losing viewers,” made it clear that many felt her continued presence on the show was unacceptable.

The controversy comes at a time when Trump has repeatedly expressed concern about what he describes as hostile political rhetoric being directed at him by members of the current administration and left-leaning media. Following the assassination attempts, Trump has publicly blamed President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris for creating a political environment that he believes fuels violence against him.

In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, the former president stated, “Their rhetoric is causing me to be shot at, when I am the one who is going to save the country. They are the ones destroying it — from the inside and out.”

Authorities continue to investigate both the Pennsylvania shooting incident and a more recent arrest in Florida. In the Florida case, law enforcement took 58-year-old Ryan Routh into custody after he was found near Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course, allegedly waiting for him to appear. Trump was on the property at the time, golfing.

Though no official conclusion has been released regarding Routh’s motive, speculation has grown, and Trump’s supporters argue the pattern is unmistakable.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has also weighed in, accusing the federal government of obstructing efforts by state law enforcement to fully investigate the Florida incident. In an interview with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, DeSantis claimed that Florida authorities were prevented from entering the scene of the attempted attack.

“Our investigators were rebuffed just going to the fence line outside of Trump International Golf Club,” DeSantis said. “The federal authorities are not being cooperative. We are deeply concerned about the lack of transparency and the possibility that this is being politically downplayed.”

The governor has launched an independent state-level investigation and emphasized the need for accountability and full access to information. “This is a serious national security issue,” he said. “When a former president and current presidential candidate is the target of violence, it should not be a partisan matter.”

In the meantime, Jessica Tarlov has not issued a public statement addressing the backlash, nor has Fox News commented on whether any disciplinary action will be taken. However, the controversy surrounding her words continues to dominate political discourse online.

As the 2024 election draws closer, tensions remain high on both sides of the political spectrum. What’s clear is that rhetoric — whether intended figuratively or not — has real consequences in today’s highly charged environment.