This strategy played a significant role in securing Trump's resounding victory.
UFC CEO Dana White, in his election night speech, expressed gratitude to a host of podcasters who had provided Trump with a platform during his campaign. "I want to thank the Nelk Boys, Aidan Ross, Theo Von, Boston, Bussin with the Boys, and last but not least, the mighty and powerful Joe Rogan," White announced.
Trump's foray into the podcast world began in March 2022, when he appeared on the popular "Full Send" podcast, also known as the "Nelk Boys." This move marked a strategic appeal to a young male demographic. The interview offered a glimpse into Trump's life beyond politics, covering topics ranging from his golf game to his favorite campaign trail songs, such as "YMCA" and "Hold on I’m Coming." He also shared his views on the Biden administration’s handling of COVID and Russia.
IN TRUE "BADA$$" FASHION, TRUMP EXTENDS THIS EXTREMELY CONTROVERSIAL INVITATION!
November 29, 2024
Trump's interview with the Nelk Boys was later removed from YouTube, a move that sparked a vehement response from the President-elect. "Whatever happened to free speech in our Country? Incredibly, but not surprisingly, the Big Tech lunatics have taken down my interview with the very popular NELK Boys so that nobody can watch it or in any way listen to it," Trump stated, according to Fox News.
TAYLOR LORENZ: I FELT JOY WHEN THE CEO WAS K*LLED
In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Trump continued to engage with the podcast community, appearing on several shows, including that of Joe Rogan, who boasts the most popular podcast in the U.S. with 14.5 million Spotify followers. Rogan endorsed Trump just a day before the election.
MARINE VET ACQUITTED: IS DANIEL PENNY THE RIGHT'S GEORGE FLOYD?
In August 2024, the Nelk Boys launched Send the Vote, a nonpartisan voter initiative targeting young men. Kyle Forgeard, one of the Nelk Boys, urged listeners to register to vote and make their voices heard. The initiative, backed by a $20 million budget, targeted 1.1 million inactive, registered male voters aged 18-34. The campaign reached over 35 million people and saw more than 2 million visitors to SendTheVote.com.
BILL CLINTON UNLOADS ON MEDIA OVER WIFE'S 2016 ELECTION DRAMA
John Shahidi, co-founder of "Full Send," explained the initiative's goal to Fox News Digital. "The goal of Send the Vote was to tear down those barriers and remind our audience that posting on social media does not count as a vote and they need to physically show up to vote. Sick of how much things cost? Go vote. Tired of unnecessary wars? Go vote - it’s not as difficult as they make it out to be."
SECOND AMENDMENT SMACKDOWN? NOT TODAY, SAYS SUPREME COURT IN CONTROVERSIAL GUN CASE
Trump's podcast strategy proved successful, especially among Gen Z men and millennials. A Fox News Voter Survey published earlier this month revealed that 53% of men aged 18-44 supported Trump, compared to Vice President Kamala Harris’ 45%.
DANIEL PENNY SPEAKS OUT FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE ACQUITTAL!
Joe Rogan's endorsement of Trump was seen as a significant win. Trump had joined Rogan for a three-hour interview ahead of the election, an opportunity that was also offered to Harris. However, her campaign's requests to shorten the interview and move it out of the studio were rejected by Rogan.
THE END OF AN ERA: HOW TRUMP PLANS TO SHAKE UP BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP FOREVER! (VIDEO)
Following the election, Trump attended a UFC fight in New York City, where he was seen embracing Rogan. On election night, Dana White praised the podcasters who had supported Trump, stating that "karma" had caught up with the Democrats. "This is karma, ladies and gentlemen. He deserves this. They deserve it as a family," White said.
WATCH: TRUMP'S 'AGENDA 47' WREAKING HAVOC ON CRITICS—AND THE TEARS KEEP COMING!
Trump's innovative use of podcasts in his campaign strategy underscores the changing landscape of political communication. It also highlights the growing influence of conservative ideologies among younger voters, a trend that played a significant role in Trump's victory.
