In a world where everyone wants to broadcast their political leanings, it was only a matter of time before WWE got caught in the crossfire. Increasingly, the company, now owned by TKO, has had its right-sided preferences on display.
However, if you know enough about WWE and the major names that made it what it is today, this shouldn't come as a major surprise. Let's explore how this right-leaning revelation has kind of always been true to WWE and how it's playing a bigger role in the company today.
The McMahon-Trump connection runs deep
Of course, one can't talk about the right without mentioning President Donald Trump. He's a WWE Hall of Famer, inducted in 2013. Trump has appeared on WWE programming many times throughout the years, even once taking a Stunner from Stone Cold Steve Austin.
Trump and then-WWE owner Vince McMahon have known each other since the 1980s, when WWE brought WrestleMania to Atlantic City at Trump Plaza. McMahon and Trump, both business-minded individuals with huge bank accounts, certainly seem like two birds of a feather, and they've flocked together ever since.
The President was even involved in a WWE storyline in 2007 for that year's WrestleMania, having a bout against McMahon titled the Battle of the Billionaires. The loser had to shave their head.
So, considering how close McMahon and Trump seem to be, it makes sense that Linda McMahon would join Trump's cabinet as the United States Secretary of Education. Vince's son-in-law Triple H has also made no secrets about visiting the White House to push health initiatives.
The difference between then and now
Of course, the difference between talking about politics in the 1980s versus the 2020s is huge. Heck, even comparing politics between the 2010s and 2020s is huge. It's no longer about having a preference towards Republicans or Democrats. One's political affiliation is increasingly a major part of who they are.
In decades past, where discussions about politics were much simpler, people could agree to disagree and move on with their lives. With politics today as polarizing as they are, some companies agree to display their opinions, while others avoid it altogether. WWE toes the line, not making any secrets about its political affiliations but not shoving it in your face, either.
WWE Superstars are free to make comments about their political preferences on social media and in interviews, and many of them have. That fact, combined with the more urgent need to speak up on political-themed issues, means we know a lot more a the roster's political affiliations.
In short, 20 years ago, you didn't know who Road Dogg voted for at the polls. Today, with social media so prevalent, you can learn in a matter of minutes that Seth Rollins is more liberal and then do with that information what you will.
So, what's on the horizon?
WWE has always been right-leaning; like most brands, it's just become more visible throughout the 2020s. However, it's not like it's impacting the final product. The McMahons (including Triple H) don't vibe with CM Punk's beliefs, but he's still World Heavyweight Champion. The same goes for Seth Rollins. And other stars who have been outspoken about their beliefs, like Becky Lynch and Sami Zayn, have received titles, opportunities, and screentime as well.
And as long as that's the way it stays, fans can turn a blind eye to the rare mentions of Trump on WWE TV and instead enjoy the company for what it's supposed to be: entertainment.