Topline
Joe Rogan is set for potentially the biggest episode in his podcast’s history when he interviews Donald Trump on Friday, a possible boon to Trump’s bid for president merely days away from the election as Kamala Harris may no longer appear on the show.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 02: Joe Rogan looks on during UFC 276 at T-Mobile Arena on July 02, 2022 in … [+] Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Key Facts
Trump confirmed he would interview in Austin, Texas, with “The Joe Rogan Experience,” the top-ranked podcast in the U.S., The Wall Street Journal reported, citing unnamed sources close to the matter.
The podcast insists each guest stay for an hour of unscripted conversation, with no handlers present, the WSJ pointed out.
A typical episode for Rogan consists of a lengthy, several hours-long conversation with guests covering a range of topics.
Some of Rogan’s most viewed episodes are interviews with billionaire Elon Musk and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, and while Rogan has hosted politicians like Sen. Bernie Sanders before, he has never interviewed a former or sitting president.
Rogan has stated he is not a Trump supporter, but he has often spoken against Democrats, disparaged criticism toward Trump, vilified internet platforms and the media for “suppressing” negative stories on Harris or Hunter Biden, and touted theories that the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection on the Capitol was provoked by “intelligence agencies,” as Trump regularly promotes.
When Will Rogan’s Interview With Trump Be Released?
The Wall Street Journal reports it’s expected to be released, at the earliest, on Oct. 26.
Will Harris Appear On “the Joe Rogan Experience”?
Apparently not. Harris reportedly was interested in a Friday interview, but the WSJ reported, citing sources familiar with the show, that she was unable to attend because of scheduling conflicts in Texas, where she will also attend a rally alongside Beyonce and has a planned interview with academic and motivational speaker Brené Brown.
Key Background
Trump’s media strategy has leaned heavily on podcasts, which have grown in popularity. Trump has been on more than a dozen podcasts this year, talking to comedians like Theo Von and controversial streamers like Adin Ross with audiences made up heavily of young men. Trump’s interview with Von is one of the most viewed in recent months, reaching more than 14 million views on YouTube. This podcast strategy stems from the Trump campaign’s goal to reach undecided or unlikely voters and specifically target young male voters and Black voters. The “bro” podcasting intends to add a competitive edge against Kamala Harris’ strength among women voters. Rogan is seemingly the most influential podcaster among this group, hosting a large audience of young men and Black listeners.
Crucial Quote
The official X account for the “Joe Rogan Experience” posted “Who’s surprised?” on Thursday. The post includes an American flag emoji, a picture of Harris superimposed next to Rogan saying she won’t appear on his podcast and a video of UFC fighter Nate Diaz saying, “I’m not surprised, mother*******.”
Contra
Harris has also given a mix of traditionally journalistic and conversational podcast-style interviews. She interviewed on another highly popular sex and lifestyle podcast, “Call Her Daddy,” on Oct. 6 and appeared on the “All the Smoke” podcast, a sports podcast from two former NBA stars, on Sept. 30. However, an Oct. 23 poll from Suffolk University/USA Today, showed only about 27% of voters watched one of the episodes and nearly 50% of respondents said it made them less likely to vote for her.
What To Watch For
Rogan does not consider himself a Republican and had said he would not host Trump on his podcast because it would rehabilitate Trump’s image. Even so, Rogan is known for entertaining controversial and often false theories. Politicos and fans are likely interested in seeing what Rogan asks Trump.
