ABC’s The View announced on Thursday, Aug. 4 it would be onboarding two conservatives, permanent co-hosts on the show, Ana Navarro and Farah Griffin. A seemingly unsurprising move, as they had numerous appearances before the announcement. 

The additions became public when Whoopi Goldberg, longtime co-host, made the announcement during two live segments on the ABC daytime talk show. 

The View’s hosting reconfiguration follows Meghan McCain’s exit from the show in October of last year, with two years remaining on her contract. The network began a search for conservative co-hosts as balanced counterparts to the show's liberal presence. 

Griffin, an ex-Trump staffer, left his administration in 2020 and has since leveled criticism at her former employer. In her time at the White House, she was offered the role of Communications Director. 

Navarro’s permanency feels more like a promotion since the fan-favorite has been a regular contributor since 2015. Variety reported a possible contract over the last few years, but a deal never materialized. 

She is the second Latina to earn a seat at the table after Sunny Hostin, who is half Puerto Rican and half Black.

Following Donald Trump’s entry into the presidential landscape, Navarro’s appearance grabbed viewers' attention, given she was a self-identifying Republican who opposed the GOP’s nominee during the 2016 elections. 

Republicans previously criticized Navarro, calling her a Republican by name only (RINO). 

An ardent critic of Donald Trump, Navarro’s commentary would have the political social media space in a chokehold. Clips of her impassioned takes would engulf social media like wildfire, making her a notable figure among Democrats and centrist-leaning Republicans. 

Navarro told Variety she would also keep her slot as a political commentator for CNN, a role she has also held over the last decade.
“The View is an institution and incomparable platform for women of different backgrounds to share their opinions and insights,” said Navarro in a statement to Variety. 

“It’s been a long courtship, but we’re finally making it official. I love being on the show, and I love living in Miami. I’m happy I will be able to do both. Thank you to ABC News, The View family and our loyal viewers for their continued support.”

The View’s Executive Producer Brian Teta, offered the following statement to CNN:

"Ana has made an indelible impact on 'The View' since the first time she joined us at the table," Teta added. "She is a strong independent thinker with savvy insight, not to mention that she is whip-smart and fiercely funny. We are very happy to officially welcome her as a co-host."