President Donald Trump on Saturday demanded that Netflix immediately fire board member Susan Rice or "pay the consequences," escalating political tensions around the streaming giant amid its pursuit of a major corporate acquisition.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump labeled Rice — a former national security adviser to Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, as well as U.N. ambassador — a "racist, Trump Deranged" "political hack" with "no talent or skills."
He questioned her compensation and role on the board, writing: "Netflix should fire racist, Trump Deranged Susan Rice, IMMEDIATELY, or pay the consequences. ... HER POWER IS GONE, AND WILL NEVER BE BACK. How much is she being paid, and for what???"
Trump's outburst followed recent comments by Rice on the "Stay Tuned with Preet Bharara" podcast, where she warned that corporations, news organizations, law firms, and other entities that "take a knee" to Trump, meaning align with or bend to his demands, potentially breaking norms or laws in the process, should not expect Democrats to "forgive and forget" if the party regains power in future elections, such as the 2026 midterms or 2028 presidential race. She suggested an "accountability agenda" could follow for those prioritizing short-term self-interest over broader principles.
The demand comes at a sensitive time for Netflix, which is reportedly engaged in negotiations or a bidding process to acquire assets from Warner Bros. Discovery in a potential blockbuster media deal reportedly valued in the tens of billions. Such a transaction would require regulatory approval, including from federal agencies that could be influenced under the current administration. Trump has previously voiced opposition to certain media consolidations involving Netflix.
Rice, who first joined Netflix's board in 2018, left during her Biden administration service, and rejoined in 2023. She serves on the company's nominating and governance committee.
Neither Netflix nor Rice has publicly responded to Trump's post as of February 22, 2026. The exchange highlights ongoing friction between the Trump administration and entities perceived as aligned with Democratic figures or interests in the entertainment and tech sectors.