BD wrote:
denisdman wrote:
I have no clue if these stats are right, but it appears the vast majority of the fans do not want politics mixed with sports. Anytime a place like ESPN or a host takes a side in these cultural fights, they are going to piss one side off. But based on this data, I can see why ESPN is trying to avoid getting in the muck.
“Since Pitaro was appointed president in March 2018, he has stated publicly that ESPN’s viewers do not want the network to cover politics that does not intersect with sports. According to research conducted last month by the network, 74% of fans don’t want to hear about politics on ESPN. That includes avid fans (85%), Republicans (84%) and Democrats (69%). The survey did not specifically define “politics.””
I just don't see the benefit to the station/network to do this, especially since, as these numbers point out, you're enraging at least 1/2 of the audience, if not more in a sports talk setting (since conservatives seem to love talk radio). If I wanted to know Dan Bernstein's political thoughts, i would just read AOC's twitter feed or turn on MSNBC - I understand these hosts get big heads and think their opinions on politics are needed, but they are really not.
I agree and think the overwhelming vast majority of people do as well. With politics you tend to only see one side as "politics." If someone like Will Cain or Clay Travis say something, to many on the right it is common sense.
When someone like Max Kellerman or Dan Lebatard say something, they are correct, right side of history, etc.
Fact is the country is divided. I would say it is 53/47 dems on overall population.
That said sports unite across race, religion, politics. I know where these people stand on politics and dont care. I hate when sports commentators say should I "stick to sports" sarcasm. Yes! You have every right to talk politics, but I don't listen to you to hear about your political views.
If I went to my primary care doctor and instead of going over my health history he talks about being pro or anti trump, I would find a different doctor. His job is to be a doctor. The job of sports commentators is talk about........SPORTS.