Staff Reports
A recent episode of the popular Joe Rogan Experience podcast has left conservative listeners scratching their heads and wondering whether they need a new favorite host. Joe Rogan, who usually leans right and has garnered a loyal conservative following, seemed to throw a curveball by expressing admiration for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This unexpected appreciation wasn’t just a whisper; it sent shockwaves echoing through the MAGA community, raising eyebrows and prompting speculation about the implications of Rogan’s comments.
Rogan’s remarks came during a discussion on presidential candidates, where he casually declared that RFK Jr. is “the only one to make sense to me.” This declaration was so influential that even Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign felt compelled to give a thumbs up, presuming that Rogan’s leaning toward Kennedy would only help their playbook. It seems even the left is ready to claim Rogan’s affection for Kennedy as some win. However, it’s hard to see how appealing to the anti-establishment spirit of Kennedy equates to a victory for a party that embraces everything Uncle Sam stands against.
Joe Rogan is getting a lot of criticism from right wing x for "endorsing" Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his podcast.
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/l0P3KO37jr
— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) August 9, 2024
The reactions from the MAGA crowd were swift and scathing. Former President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to poke fun at Rogan, suggesting that the next time Rogan enters the UFC ring, he might hear boos rather than cheers from the loyal fanbase. It’s hardly surprising that MAGA supporters were not thrilled about Rogan’s comments, given his prior alignment with the right on a multitude of important issues. Who can blame them for being unsettled? The idea that Rogan could be appreciating a Kennedy—yes, *that* Kennedy—strikes fear in the hearts of dedicated conservatives.
In the midst of this social media storm, Rogan attempted to clarify his position. He took to social media with a statement that could have been titled “Please Don’t Cancel Me.” He emphasized that he likes RFK Jr. as a person but insisted that he was not endorsing him. Rogan explained that his admiration stems from Kennedy’s civility and intelligence when discussing issues—qualities that seem increasingly rare in the politically charged atmosphere of modern America. It’s amusing that Rogan thinks civility might actually make a comeback in an environment where name-calling and chaos reign supreme.
Rogan, perhaps still feeling the heat from his fanbase, also offered props to Trump for bravely raising his fist at a Pennsylvania rally, demonstrating a fight that many Americans still admire. It seems that even as Rogan dipped his toes into the Kennedy waters, he was careful not to venture too far from the actual conservative ship. Regardless, the fallout from his comments will likely lead to even more scrutiny in the future. Fans now have to wonder whether Rogan’s podcast will continue to serve as a bastion of conservative thought or if it will morph into a platform for more maverick-style politics. One thing’s for sure: the coming weeks should be entertaining as everyone sorts out what, if anything, Rogan’s latest comments mean for the right.
