Ivanka Trump’s tribute to the late country music superstar Dolly Parton was not well received — perhaps because it began with her quoting herself on a podcast.
The First Daughter joined the parade of commenters who flooded social media to praise Parton, who brought joy to millions with both her music and her humanitarian efforts.
"A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it," wrote Trump.
"'I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept.' That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively simple — uncomplicated on its face but profound and deeply moving beneath the surface."
This comment didn't land well with readers who found themselves unconvinced that similarities existed between Trump and Parton.
Replied Robert J. Ellingworth, "Tell that to Daddy."
“She was what you will never be," Dede Watkins, an X influencer with 105,000 followers, replied. "Dolly was a very authentic and philanthropic person. She gave so much to her community and the world. You and your family are corrupt grifters who are destroying our country.”
That led follower Nunya to pile on with, “And Dolly hated everything you and your disgusting family stands for so you might want to sit this one out Babe.”
Podcaster Kyle Kulinski noted Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner’s current development project — a resort in Albania and quipped, “aren't you building a new epstein island?”
Ex-Republican Deanna published an epic screed:
“It’s amazing what truly decent people can do with their fortune," Deanna wrote. "She mailed free books to children every month, sent instruments and uniforms to schools in the South, donated millions to hurricane recovery, donated to childhood cancer research and covid vaccine development. She created an amusement park in her home state. And, always supported musicians. The outpouring of love for Dolly Parton is because she was such a great person, not because of her fame. She is who those with wealth should aspire to being. It’s never too late. There’s a lot of need all around you. It’s about your own heart and priorities in life. You can either be a giver or a taker. How we choose to live this one life is how we’ll be remembered when we’re gone."
Another critic pointed out: “You or anyone affiliated with trump, of the administration, or ties to your family should not mince a word about Dolly. Your lives, morals, and obligations are nothing near what she is. Read the room. Get a clue.”
"Love and acceptance," added Damin Toell, "definitely the Trump family brand."
A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. "I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept."
That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively…
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) August 25, 2026
