Jane Fonda Faces Treason Allegations During Live Broadcast
Note: This story was originally reported in June 2021.
In a heated appearance on Fox News, former Trump aide Stephen Miller harshly criticized Jane Fonda, accusing her of treason for her protests against the Vietnam War. The 83-year-old activist, who has recently spoken out against the Keystone pipeline, faced renewed scrutiny for her controversial actions during the Vietnam conflict.
Miller did not hold back in condemning Fonda’s historical activism, claiming that her visit to Vietnam in the 1970s constituted treason against the United States. He highlighted her collaboration with North Vietnamese propaganda, including her participation in radio broadcasts and her infamous photograph next to an anti-aircraft gun, calling her actions a severe betrayal. He posed a provocative question to viewers: Should someone who he believes committed treason still be regarded as a hero?
Fonda’s 1972 trip to North Vietnam was a major focus of Miller’s commentary. He pointed out her vocal opposition to U.S. military efforts during broadcasts, along with her symbolic actions, such as wearing a Vietnamese soldier’s helmet. Miller asserted that these deeds led to her being labeled ‘Hanoi Jane,’ a nickname that still stirs strong emotions among U.S. veterans.
The Fox News segment aimed to bring attention back to Fonda’s actions during the Vietnam War, presenting them as a lasting blemish on her legacy. Miller’s characterization of her as a traitor was set against the backdrop of her recent protests against pipeline initiatives, particularly those launched during the Trump era.
Although Fonda has expressed regret for the controversial photograph taken in Hanoi, Miller questioned the sincerity of her remorse, arguing that her regrets do not negate the accusations of treason.
This Fox News interview reignited discussions regarding Fonda’s credibility and the impact of her past on her current activism. Miller’s comments resonated with certain U.S. veterans, raising the question of whether her historical actions should shape perceptions of her present-day political efforts.
As a dedicated activist, Fonda has continuously protested against various political issues. Recently, she criticized President Joe Biden for not taking firmer actions against pipeline projects, particularly the Keystone pipeline, which Biden blocked through a permit revocation this week.
The Fox News interview highlighted the ongoing controversy surrounding Fonda, framing her past actions as crucial to understanding her current political engagement. As discussions about activism and its ramifications persist, Fonda’s legacy remains a divisive subject, especially regarding her opposition to significant pipeline projects.