Jaxson Dart Injury Sparks Outcry Over Media's Political Mockery
Commentators and fans criticize what they call a politically motivated reaction to the New York Giants quarterback's season-ending injury.
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart's season-ending knee injury has ignited controversy, with critics accusing a segment of the media of politicizing the injury due to Dart's past appearance with President Donald Trump.
The narrative quickly shifted from the severity of the injury to commentary that linked it to Dart's May appearance introducing Trump at a New York City event. Some outlets and social media users invoked the idea of a "Trump curse," suggesting the injury was political karma.
"Media types say 'Trump Curse' has struck again," noted HuffPost, labeling Dart a "Trump admirer." Similarly, Tara Setmayer, a former GOP communications director and CNN commentator, wrote on X that "The f—–g Trump curse strikes again." Film and TV critic John Rocha shared a photo of Dart and Trump, commenting, "Everything he touches, y'all." Ron Filipkowski, editor of MeidasTouch, claimed he predicted Dart's injury after the quarterback appeared with Trump, stating, "He had no chance this season after the Trump Curse."
This reaction extended to online comment sections, such as The Athletic's report on Dart's injury, which critics described as resembling a "fringe political message board." Comments allegedly celebrated the injury and attributed it to his support for Trump.
The article asserts that introducing a sitting president at an event, especially one held in the city where the athlete plays, should not inherently be interpreted as a definitive political statement. It suggests that many Americans, regardless of their political affiliation, might accept such an opportunity.
This perceived backlash against Dart is part of a broader trend, according to the reporting. It cites instances such as former ESPN commentator Mark Jones mocking 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa after a knee injury in 2020, referring to him as "MAGA Bosa." It also references former ESPN host Keith Olbermann celebrating Aaron Rodgers' Achilles tear in 2023, linking it to vaccination status.
Critics argue that this behavior demonstrates "Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS)," where individuals react negatively to those who do not express overt disdain for Trump. They contend that liberal sports media figures and fans abandon common decency to score political points, especially when an injury can be politically framed. The reporting contrasts this with the lack of similar commentary when athletes who promote left-wing politics suffer injuries.