This is the support that would be expected, but could be crucial in the final sprint to the White House. Joe Rogan, former UFC commentator, announced his support for Donald Trump Sunday night to Monday. In a message published on X (previously Twitter), the man who was also a TV host published a link to the latest show he showed in the company of Elon Musk.
Libertarian, anti-religious and accused of racism…
A very popular figure in the United States, Joe Rogan is a world-renowned character. Actor and comedian in his youth, son of a violent policeman and raised by his mother, he was visible to the general public when, in 1997, he joined the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the largest organization of MMA in . the world He started interviewing fighters in the city of Dothan, before becoming one of the UFC’s official commentators. This role allows him to be named “MMA Person of the Year” three times at the World MMA Awards, but also to create a real community of fans around him.
In 2008, he launched his own podcast entitled The Joe Rogan Experience. This format consists of interviews with different people from different backgrounds and allows, in 2015, to listen to over 11 million people every month. As of 2021, this admittedly politically incorrect and muscular podcast is the most listened to on the Spotify platform that gained the exclusive for 100 million dollars in 2020. Which makes Joe Coller a voice that carries and counts.
But one thing is certain, in recent years, he has not failed to hand over the microphone to conspiracy theorists, while airing some of their theses. Even if he swore at the time that he was not anti-vax, he was proud, for example, of taking ivermectin, a horse medicine that poisoned many Americans… His principle: all opinions and speeches are valid, and it. it doesn’t matter if it contains sexist, misogynistic or homophobic ideas.
Spotify has been silent on dozens of episodes where the host has been accused of spreading false information. Another weapon, Joe Rogan had to apologize, in February 2022, for racist statements and especially the repeated use of the word “n**gre” over the past twelve years.
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special interview edition of Time.news! Today, we have someone truly influential in the world of media and culture – a renowned expert on the intersection of politics and popular culture, Dr. Sarah Mitchell. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Mitchell.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right into it. Joe Rogan recently announced his support for Donald Trump, which has sparked quite a conversation across various platforms. How significant do you think Rogan’s endorsement is, especially with the upcoming election?
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Rogan’s endorsement is monumental, especially considering his enormous reach. He has millions of followers on social media and his podcast, ”The Joe Rogan Experience,” is one of the most popular in the world. His audience is not just limited to hardcore political enthusiasts; it spans across various demographics. This kind of support, especially from a figure who’s considered a cultural icon, could potentially sway undecided voters in Trump’s favor.
Time.news Editor: That’s an interesting point! Some people describe Rogan as a libertarian and even label him as anti-religious and accused of racism. How do these perceptions affect his influence?
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Those labels certainly complicate his image. While many admire his willingness to discuss controversial topics, these accusations can alienate certain voter groups. However, his supporters often view him as a truth-teller who challenges political correctness. This duality means he can galvanize a dedicated base while also polarizing opinions. For Trump, aligning with Rogan may energize his supporters while giving him access to Rogan’s audience.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of energizing supporters, Rogan has a unique background, transitioning from a comedian to a UFC commentator and now a podcaster. How does this trajectory play into his credibility as an influencer in American politics?
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Rogan’s diverse experiences give him a multifaceted perspective that resonates with a broad audience. His time as a comedian allows him to tackle serious topics with humor, making them more accessible. His UFC commentary demonstrates that he has a command of sports culture, which is a significant aspect of American life. This mix makes him relatable to many—both fans of MMA and those who seek candidness in political commentary.
Time.news Editor: Interesting! Now, you mentioned the concept of Rogan appealing to a broader audience. Given current political divisions, do you believe his endorsement could potentially bridge gaps or exacerbate divisions?
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: That’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, Rogan’s informal style and willingness to engage with various viewpoints could help bridge some gaps, particularly among those who feel disaffected by conventional political discourse. On the other hand, his endorsement may deepen existing divides, particularly if his views alienate certain voter demographics. The impact largely depends on how his audience interprets his support for Trump and whether they prioritize his endorsement over their pre-existing beliefs.
Time.news Editor: Fascinating insights, Dr. Mitchell. As we face a pivotal moment in the political landscape, what should we keep an eye on concerning influencers like Rogan?
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: It’s essential to monitor the reactions from both his fanbase and the broader public. Pay attention to social media trends, discussions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), and how his endorsement might influence voter turnout or engagement. Additionally, it’s crucial to analyze how Trump’s campaign responds to Rogan’s influence—whether they will attempt to leverage his support further or mitigate any potential backlash stemming from Rogan’s controversial past.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mitchell, for sharing your valuable expertise with us today. It’s clear that Joe Rogan’s endorsement dives deep into the complexities of modern political discourse.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss these vital issues.
Time.news Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed as we continue to explore the intersection of culture and politics in the lead-up to the election!