On July 10, 2025, Joy Behar, the outspoken co-host of ABC’s “The View,” ignited a firestorm of debate with a bold declaration during a heated segment of the show. Discussing the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” and its sweeping cuts to federal funding, Behar expressed frustration over what she perceives as the federal government shirking its responsibilities. “If the federal government is going to push everything onto the states, why am I paying federal taxes?” she questioned, adding, “I’ll just pay state taxes and call it a day. Let’s see the IRS come for me!” Her remarks, delivered with her signature blend of humor and defiance, quickly spread across social media, particularly on X, where reactions ranged from amusement to outrage.
Behar’s comments come at a time of heightened political tension following the passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill,” a piece of legislation tied to President Donald Trump’s second term. The bill, which has been touted by supporters as a move to streamline federal spending, has drawn criticism from opponents who argue it shifts critical responsibilities—such as healthcare and infrastructure funding—to state governments. Behar, a known critic of Trump’s policies, seized on this point during the discussion, arguing that if the federal government is no longer providing essential services, taxpayers like herself should not be obligated to fund it. Her statement, however, appears to be more of a provocative jab than a genuine call to action, as she herself acknowledged the inevitability of IRS scrutiny.
The reaction on X was swift and varied. Some users mocked Behar’s stance, with one post sarcastically wishing her “good luck with that IRS audit.” Others expressed support, echoing her frustration with federal spending priorities. One X user wrote, “Joy’s got a point—why fund a government that doesn’t deliver?” Yet, the consensus among legal and financial experts is clear: refusing to pay federal taxes is not only illegal but also a risky move that could lead to severe penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. Behar’s quip about the IRS suggests she’s well aware of the consequences, framing her statement as a rhetorical flourish rather than a serious plan.
Joy Behar says she's going to refuse to pay her federal income taxes because of the spending cuts. She then whines that the IRS will go after her for it:
— Nicholas Fondacaro (@NickFondacaro) July 10, 2025
"Why am I paying federal taxes if they're not going to do anything? … If they want the states to take care everything, I'll… pic.twitter.com/lULmJxmr65
This is not the first time Behar has used her platform to stir controversy. In a June 2025 appearance on the podcast “The View: Behind the Table,” she spoke candidly about her desire to shape public opinion on political issues, particularly regarding Trump’s policies. “I want to influence how people think about what’s happening,” she said, underscoring her role as a commentator unaf raid to push boundaries. Her tax comment fits this pattern, designed to provoke discussion and highlight her broader critique of federal overreach and mismanagement.
However, Behar’s remarks should be taken in context. As a television personality with a decades-long career in comedy and commentary, her statements often lean into hyperbole for effect. There is no evidence from credible sources, including news outlets or her own statements, to suggest she has taken or plans to take concrete steps to withhold federal taxes. Such an action would be a direct violation of federal law, and the IRS, as Behar herself alluded, has a robust system for addressing tax evasion.
The broader discussion sparked by Behar’s comments reflects ongoing debates about the role of federal versus state governments in funding public services. Critics of the “Big Beautiful Bill” argue it could exacerbate inequality, as wealthier states may be better equipped to handle increased responsibilities than poorer ones. Supporters, meanwhile, see it as a step toward greater local control and fiscal responsibility. Behar’s statement, while attention-grabbing, taps into this larger conversation, albeit in a way that prioritizes headlines over nuance.
In the end, Behar’s declaration is unlikely to translate into action, but it has succeeded in doing what she does best: sparking debate. Whether you view her as a bold truth-teller or a provocateur tossing out soundbites, her comments have once again placed her at the center of the national conversation. As the IRS looms large in her jest, one thing is certain—Joy Behar knows how to keep the spotlight on her and the issues she cares about.
