Trump Demands Netflix Remove Susan Rice from Board, Threatens Consequences
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum to Netflix on February 23, 2026, demanding the streaming giant remove Susan Rice from its board of directors or face unspecified “consequences.” The demand came in response to Rice’s recent remarks cautioning corporations against expecting leniency from Democrats for actions taken under Republican pressure.
Rice, a former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and National Security Advisor during the Obama administration, spoke candidly on the “Stay Tuned with Preet” podcast hosted by former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara. She warned that companies which “taken a knee” to Republican demands should not anticipate forgiveness if Democrats regain power. “This is not going to be an instance of forgive and forget,” Rice said. “The damage that these people are doing is too severe to the American people and our national interest.”
Trump’s call for Rice’s removal underscores the intensifying political polarization surrounding corporate governance and the role of public figures in private sector leadership. While Netflix has not publicly responded to the demand, the situation highlights the increasing scrutiny companies face amid partisan conflicts.
The former president’s threat did not specify what actions his administration or allies might take should Netflix fail to comply. Such ambiguity leaves open questions about potential regulatory or political pressures that could be leveraged against the media company.
Susan Rice’s involvement with Netflix is part of a broader trend of former government officials joining corporate boards, a practice that often invites public debate over conflicts of interest and political influence. Her recent comments echo concerns expressed by Democrats about an “accountability agenda” aimed at addressing policies enacted during Trump’s tenure.
This development comes amid heightened tensions as Democrats prepare for upcoming elections, with corporate America’s political alignments under close examination. The Federal Communications Commission and Securities and Exchange Commission have increasingly focused on corporate governance and transparency, though no direct action has been reported in this case.
Observers note that Rice’s warning reflects a growing willingness among Democratic leaders to hold corporations accountable for their political stances, signaling a shift from previous eras of bipartisan corporate engagement. Meanwhile, Trump’s aggressive posture toward Netflix may be part of a broader strategy to mobilize his political base by targeting high-profile figures perceived as adversaries.
The controversy also raises questions about the boundaries between political expression and corporate responsibility. As companies navigate the complex landscape of social and political expectations, incidents like this underscore the challenges of balancing stakeholder interests with public scrutiny.
For now, Netflix remains silent on the matter, and the unfolding dispute will likely attract attention from regulators, shareholders, and political commentators alike. The incident serves as a vivid example of how political dynamics continue to permeate the corporate world, influencing decisions at the highest levels.
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