During a panel on CNN on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, a moment of tension arose when “Shark Tank” personality Kevin O’Leary was called out by political analyst Angela Rye for making physical contact with her. The incident occurred amid a heated exchange over Elon Musk’s political contributions to Republican legislators.
The exchange took place on “CNN NewsNight,” where O’Leary and Rye, former executive director and general counsel for the Congressional Black Caucus, discussed the implications of Musk’s donations to Republicans who support the impeachment of federal judges who have challenged President Trump’s policies.
O’Leary allegedly touched Rye during the debate, prompting her to assert her personal space. “You don’t have to touch me,” Rye stated firmly.
O’Leary responded in a subdued tone, claiming, “I did that nicely.”
Rye reiterated her stance, saying, “I don’t want you to touch me. That’s my personal space.”
O’Leary conceded, stating respectfully, “I won’t ever do it again.”
The interaction sparked a discussion on social media, with some criticizing O’Leary’s actions as an attempt to control Rye, while others viewed Rye’s reaction as excessive.
The physical contact took place during a debate on Musk’s recent political contributions. Musk has given $6,600 — the maximum legal individual contribution — to seven Republican members of Congress who have advocated for impeaching federal judges or taking action against them for blocking Trump administration initiatives.
Host Abby Phillip initiated the discussion by questioning whether these donations could be categorized as lobbying. As O’Leary and Rye spoke over each other, the debate intensified, with Rye suggesting Musk’s donations crossed a legal boundary.
“He [Musk] literally says thank you to the members who introduce articles of impeachment,” Rye asserted. “That is an exchange of value. That is a violation.”
O’Leary defended the practice of political fundraising, calling it a long-standing tradition in American politics. “The oldest profession on Earth is not prostitution — it’s politicians raising money,” he argued. “That has happened from the beginning of time. That’s going on forever, and will continue forever. This issue around judges, this is pure politics… No laws have been broken. You don’t like it? Too bad.”
Reports indicate that Musk’s contributions were directed to Representatives Eli Crane, Lauren Boebert, Andy Ogles, Andrew Clyde, Derrick Van Orden, Brandon Gill, and Senator Chuck Grassley. Several of these legislators have either filed articles of impeachment against specific judges or advocated for action against them due to rulings that have hindered Trump administration policies.
The donations followed several court decisions that obstructed Trump administration efforts, such as attempts to end birthright citizenship, halt foreign aid, and prohibit transgender individuals from serving in the military. Recently, a federal judge ordered the administration to return planes carrying Venezuelan individuals classified as gang members who were being deported.
Musk has expressed support for these impeachment moves, claiming that there has been “extreme abuse of the legal system by activists pretending to be judges.” His super PAC is reportedly focusing on down-ballot races for the 2024 election cycle.
Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts commented on the situation, emphasizing that impeachment is not a suitable response to judicial disagreements. He highlighted that the appellate review process is the proper channel for contesting court decisions.
Legal experts have raised concerns that the Trump administration has already begun to disregard federal court orders, warning of a potential constitutional crisis if the pattern continues.
The exchange between O’Leary and Rye underscores the contentious nature of political discourse on news programs, especially when discussing influential figures like Musk and their impact on American politics.
While some Republicans have supported the idea of impeaching judges who rule against the administration’s policies, there are divisions within the party. An anonymous House Republican was quoted as saying they do not endorse impeaching a sitting judge solely due to disagreement with a decision.
Musk’s political spending has increased significantly this election cycle, with reports indicating he has spent nearly $300 million on the 2024 election, focusing more on down-ballot races rather than presidential campaigns.
The incident between O’Leary and Rye highlights the emotional intensity that can arise during political debates and the need to respect personal boundaries, even in heated televised discussions.
