Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy recently distinguished between accountability and "cancel culture" during an event in New York City for his new book, "Cancel Me If You Can." Portnoy defended free speech but argued that the First Amendment does not shield individuals from the repercussions of their words.
Speaking at 92NY, Portnoy stated that people should be held accountable for offensive, racist, or sexist remarks. However, he differentiated this from situations where individuals are targeted by critics who pre-emptively dislike them and then search for past material to discredit them.
"If I say something really bad or offensive or racist or sexist, right now, right here, [I] should be held accountable for that," Portnoy said, emphasizing that while people can say what they wish, they are not exempt from criticism or consequences.
He added, "You can't just say whatever you want and then be like, 'Hey, I can say it. Freedom of speech!' I'm not saying you can't say it. I'm not saying you should go to jail, but you can be held responsible, you can be criticized."
Portnoy noted that digging into past comments is more acceptable when the subject is a politician or a candidate running for office. He specifically mentioned New York City Mayor Eric Adams-backed Democratic congressional nominee Darializa Avila Chevalier and Senate contender Aber Kawas, whose past comments have resurfaced following their primary wins.
Portnoy also expressed his disdain for Mayor Eric Adams, hinting at a potential political run. "Maybe I'm the guy to do it," Portnoy said when asked about the possibility of challenging Adams in the 2026 mayoral election.
The conversation at 92NY was with Erika Ayers Badan, CEO of Food52 and the former first CEO of Barstool Sports. The pair reflected on their time building the media company, with Portnoy noting he has dedicated half his life to its growth. He recalled a Jimmy Buffett quote that he had intended to use at the beginning of his book: "I’m so damn lucky to have an all-star cast. Some lovely, some crazy. Who ever thought this would last? You know if I hadn’t lived it, I’d read it myself."