Fox Business Network anchor David Asman has ignited a firestorm of controversy after publicly calling for a boycott of the National Football League over its embrace of social justice initiatives.
The veteran broadcaster, during a segment on Varney & Co., declared the NFL had become "unwatchable" due to what he termed its "social justice nonsense," specifically referencing players taking the knee during the national anthem.
A Divisive Declaration On Air
Asman's comments were not made off-the-cuff but delivered as a direct piece of advice to his audience. "Don't watch it," he stated emphatically. "If you don't like what they're doing, don't watch it. I don't watch it anymore."
This stance places him in direct opposition to the NFL's recent efforts, which include initiatives like the Inspire Change program, designed to address systemic racism and promote social justice causes—a move that has garnered both praise and criticism.
Reigniting The Culture War Debate
The anchor's proclamation has effectively reignited the long-smouldering culture war debate that has surrounded the NFL for years. The act of kneeling during the anthem, started by former quarterback Colin Kaepernick to protest police brutality and racial inequality, became a potent political symbol during the Trump presidency.
Asman's call for a boycott echoes sentiments from that era, suggesting the issue remains a potent and divisive force within American society and media.
Backlash and Support Flood In
The reaction to Asman's comments was swift and polarised. Critics were quick to condemn his position on social media and in the press, accusing him of being out of touch and dismissive of legitimate calls for equality and reform.
Conversely, his stance will likely resonate with a segment of the viewership that believes sports and political activism should remain separate, highlighting the deep ideological divide that often plays out on cable news networks.
This incident underscores the challenging tightrope walk for broadcasters like Fox News, which must cater to a specific conservative base while occasionally navigating the backlash that arises from its commentators' most provocative statements.
