‘Woke’ ESPN Turns A New Page, Airs Trump Message During Nationwide Broadcast

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A network long criticized for leaning into progressive politics, ESPN may have surprised some viewers during Monday night’s College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The network aired a video message from President Donald Trump during halftime, a move that caught many off guard, marking a significant departure from its usual programming tone.

The game, which saw the No. 8-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes claim their first national title in a decade with a 34-23 victory over seventh-seeded Notre Dame, was already drawing massive national attention. But it wasn’t just the on-field action that had people talking.

As the broadcast cut to halftime, ESPN’s Chris Fowler introduced a message from President Trump, addressing the nation on what was also Inauguration Day. “Today, of course, was Inauguration Day, and earlier today, President Donald J. Trump had this message,” Fowler said.

Trump’s pre-recorded address struck a tone of optimism and national pride. “Hello to my great fellow Americans. This has been a historic and exciting day for our country. In recent years, our people have suffered greatly, but starting now, we’re going to bring America back and make it safer, richer, and prouder than ever before,” Trump said in the message.

The address continued with the former president emphasizing his signature “America First” agenda and promising an era of peace and prosperity. We will be respected again, and we will be admired again—admired like we haven’t been in many, many years. We’ll put America first, and by doing so, we’re going to make America great again,” Trump said.

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The Trump message, filled with themes of unity and strength, concluded with words aimed at the athletes and fans alike: “To all of the players and fans watching tonight, I know it’s been a long and difficult journey. But you have two tremendous teams. Go out and fight hard and fight fair, and let the better team win. Thank you, and good night.”

The moment also brought attention to ESPN’s evolving role in national conversations. In recent years, the network has faced criticism for mixing politics with sports, but Monday’s broadcast indicated that perhaps it is willing to present a wider array of viewpoints moving forward.

The network, which has often faced backlash for its left-leaning stance, might be taking a different approach to reach a broader audience. Many praised the decision as a sign of the changing cultural tide.

An ESPN spokesperson told USA TODAY Sports: “With Donald Trump’s Inauguration occurring on the day of the CFP National Championship, it makes sense to include a message from the President, a practice that occurs regularly during major sporting events – including earlier this month from President Biden before the Sugar Bowl.”

In the end, the night also belonged to Ohio State, as head coach Ryan Day led his team to an emotional victory.



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