The View issues four 'legal notes' over Trump cabinet nominee allegations, sparking on-air drama

The hosts of "The View" were compelled to issue four "legal notes" during Friday’s episode after discussing allegations involving some of President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominees.

The legal notes — disclaimers provided by the lawyers of the individuals mentioned — addressed comments made on-air by Joy Behar, Sara Haines, Ana Navarro, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin.

While discussing George Santos, Behar referenced the former congressman’s 23 criminal charges, including wire fraud.

Moments later, she received a message from the show’s producers, which she shared with the audience.

“One minute, I just got a note,” Behar said, looking at her phone. “We have to clarify that Santos eventually reached a plea deal after pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.”

“Is that a legal note?” Haines asked.

“Kind of, it’s a clarification,” Behar replied.

The hosts also discussed sexual assault allegations against Trump’s attorney general nominee Matt Gaetz and defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth.

Hostin was then required to read statements provided by their legal teams.

“I have a legal note,” she said. “Matt Gaetz has long denied all allegations and has not been charged with any crime.”

“Also, another legal note,” Hostin added. “Pete Hegseth’s lawyer said he paid the woman [his assault accuser] in 2023 to head off the threat of a baseless lawsuit. He has denied any wrongdoing.”

Later, Hostin issued another legal note about Pam Bondi, Trump’s nominee for attorney general, prompting a reaction from Behar.

“I’m sorry everyone, I have another legal note,” Hostin said, while Behar groaned: “Oh my God.”

“Both Trump and Bondi have denied allegations of a quid pro quo that his past donation played any role in her office’s decision not to take legal action against Trump University when she was attorney general of Florida,” Hostin explained.