Bulwark Takes Conservative Podcaster BLASTS Trump’s Kimmel Crackdown!
Sep 18, 2025
Sam Stein and Tim Miller dive into the unexpected fallout from Jimmy Kimmel's ouster, highlighting the divided reactions within MAGA media. They discuss Barstool’s split opinions, with KFC attributing the decision to corporate mergers. The duo also tackles Trump’s thin-skinned response and its implications for free speech, painting a picture of cultural influencers feeling abandoned. They warn about the silence from major media outlets regarding Kimmel and how local news might face new partisan challenges due to media consolidation.
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Unexpected Cross-Over Backlash
- Many podcasters who normally oppose mainstream media still criticized Kimmel's ouster, which surprised hosts Sam Stein and Tim Miller.
- Their responses indicate the reaction cut across usual partisan or generational lines and felt genuine, not performative.
Barstool Pushback Against Portnoy
- Tim Miller highlights Barstool figures pushing back against founder Dave Portnoy's defense of canceling Kimmel.
- KFC criticized Nexstar and FCC pressure, framing the move as money-driven and government-influenced rather than pure free-speech concerns.
Nuanced Voices In Bro Culture
- Some Barstool voices offered nuanced critiques rather than reflexive outrage, showing complexity within 'bro' culture.
- Tim Miller argues these reactions can be thoughtful and meaningful, not just puerile noise.