Today, Explained Buffalo Billions
Apr 7, 2022
Andrew Zimbalist, an esteemed economics professor specializing in sports, and Jerry Zaremsky, Washington bureau chief for the Buffalo News, delve into the controversial $850 million public funding for a new Buffalo Bills stadium. They discuss whether such financial support ever benefits the community and explore the team's vital role during tough times. The conversation turns to the ethical implications of wealthy owners profiting from taxpayer dollars, reflecting on the precarious balance between sports and local government interests.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rameswaram's Buffalo Connection
- Sean Rameswaram grew up near Buffalo, making the Bills his closest NFL team.
- Despite this, his main sport was hockey.
Bills and Buffalo's Identity
- The Buffalo Bills contribute to the city's identity and provide community unity.
- The Bills represent a significant aspect of Buffalo's identity and provide a source of unity.
Funding Controversy
- Public funding for the Bills' stadium is less than the average for smaller NFL markets.
- The Pagulas, being fracking billionaires, draws criticism given the state's anti-fracking stance.