Scott Pelley's Wake Forest Commencement Speech Sparks Political Firestorm
Scott Pelley’s Wake Forest Commencement Speech Goes Viral: Journalist Warns of Attacks on Democracy, Free Speech, and Truth
On May 19, 2025, veteran CBS journalist Scott Pelley delivered a commencement address at Wake Forest University that has since ignited significant political discourse. While Pelley did not mention former President Donald Trump by name, his remarks were widely interpreted as a critique of the Trump administration's policies, particularly concerning attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and freedom of speech.
In his speech, Pelley warned graduates about "insidious fear" infiltrating American institutions and urged them to become "fierce defenders of democracy." He stated, "Our sacred rule of law is under attack. Journalism is under attack. Universities are under attack. Freedom of speech is under attack."
The address quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from Trump supporters who labeled it "angry" and "unhinged." Some accused Pelley of politicizing a celebratory event, while others defended his message as a necessary call to action in challenging times.
Pelley's speech also touched on the manipulation of language and truth, referencing George Orwell's concept of "newspeak." He expressed concern over the redefinition of terms like "diversity," "equity," and "inclusion," suggesting that such changes serve to consolidate power by promoting ignorance.
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In closing, Pelley challenged the graduates to reflect on their roles in society, asking, "What is the meaning of life? Who are you? You are the educated. You are the compassionate. You are the fierce defenders of democracy, the seekers of truth, the vanguard against ignorance."
The speech has sparked a broader conversation about the role of journalists and public figures in political discourse, especially during significant events like commencement ceremonies.
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Had MAGA and Trump not been guilty of the things that were being mentioned in the address, then they would have no cause to be irate. But the fact is, their guilt burned inside them and they decided to go on the attack thus admitting to their guilt and evil ways.
Plus, these kids are our politicians of tomorrow. They will be the ones who will have to clean up this huge mess our today’s politicians are leaving them.