Ken Burns criticizes Donald Trump during Brandeis speech causing backlash from MAGA supporters

Documentarian Ken Burns made headlines recently for breaking his usual neutrality to issue a stark warning about Donald Trump during a commencement speech at Brandeis University. Burns, known for his acclaimed documentaries, told graduates that there is “no real choice this November” and referred to Trump as the “opioid of all opioids.”

Burns, a known Democratic supporter, usually avoids taking political stances to maintain the integrity of his work. However, he felt compelled to speak out about the upcoming election, warning students that choosing the “other route” could lead to chaos and destruction.

His comments quickly sparked backlash from Trump supporters, with some calling his speech a “disgrace” and accusing him of pushing his political views on graduates. Attorney Jonathan Turley criticized Burns for making a partisan speech at a commencement ceremony, stating that universities should not allow such behavior.

Former US assistant attorney general Jeff Clark, who was indicted alongside Trump in a Georgia election interference case, also condemned Burns’ speech, calling it a “disgrace” and suggesting that Brandeis University should lose federal funding for allowing political statements at the event.

Trump ally Vernon Jones added to the criticism, accusing Burns of trying to influence graduates to vote for Joe Biden and further divide the country. Despite the backlash, Burns stood by his warning, urging students not to be swayed by easy solutions and emphasizing the gravity of the choice they face in the upcoming election.