Martha Stewart: A Political Target or Just a Brand Ambassador?

Fox News contributor Tom Shillue sparked laughter and criticism with his unusual request to Martha Stewart. He suggested she should switch political parties. Shillue, known for his comedy, appeared on Fox News' Outnumbered. He praised Stewart's career but took issue with her political views. Shillue argued that Stewart's support for Democratic candidates was not based on principles. He claimed it was driven by self-interest. He even suggested she join the Republican Party as revenge. This was due to her past legal troubles. Stewart served time for obstruction of justice over two decades ago. The segment was meant to praise Stewart for her American Eagle campaign. Instead, Shillue diverted the conversation to her politics. This shift surprised the hosts and viewers alike. The comment section on X (formerly Twitter) lit up with mockery. Many questioned the logic behind Shillue's argument. Stewart's political stance has been clear for years. She endorsed Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Kamala Harris in 2024. She skipped endorsing anyone in 2020. Her relationship with Donald Trump has been icy since their falling out. This happened after their reality show, The Apprentice: Martha Stewart, failed in 2005. In 2008, Stewart made a joke about Trump with Joan Rivers. She said it was “too bad” Trump couldn’t be slaughtered for Trump Steaks. She rarely speaks about Trump now. In 2018, she said she would have rejected a pardon from him. She believed her friends and family would disapprove. Before the 2016 election, Stewart told Andy Cohen she wouldn’t talk about Trump. She did hint that she didn’t think he was fit to be president. Her comments were subtle but clear. Shillue's plea to Stewart seems to miss the point. It’s not about revenge or branding. It’s about her beliefs and values.