Is Trump Afraid of Bad Bunny? (feat. Pablo Torre) - Pod Save America Recap

Podcast: Pod Save America

Published: 2026-02-08

Duration: 1 hr 3 min

Guests: Pablo Torre

Summary

The episode investigates how sports have become intertwined with politics, especially under Donald Trump's influence. It also examines the implications of the rise in online sports gambling and the cultural impact of celebrity figures like Bad Bunny.

What Happened

Pablo Torre joins Tommy to explore the intersection of sports and politics, especially focusing on Donald Trump's intricate relationship with major sports organizations like the NFL, FIFA, and UFC. Torre highlights Trump's failed attempt to buy the Buffalo Bills in 2014, suggesting that this could have altered his political trajectory. Trump's presidency saw him attending the Super Bowl, a first for a sitting president, and leveraging sports events for political propaganda, especially through his friendship with UFC CEO Dana White.

The episode delves into the politicization of Colin Kaepernick's protest against racism and police brutality, which Trump twisted into a broader political issue. Torre argues that Kaepernick's subsequent exclusion from the NFL was a direct result of this political maneuvering. The NFL's strategic choice to feature artists like Bad Bunny during halftime shows is framed as an effort to reach diverse audiences.

The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of sports gambling. With the 2018 Supreme Court ruling legalizing sports betting in many states, there has been a significant increase in online gambling, facilitated by smartphone technology. Torre raises concerns about gambling addiction, particularly among young men, due to the easy access to betting through mobile devices.

Event contracts and prediction markets are another focal point, with discussion on how they influence public perception of political events. Torre critiques the less stringent regulation by the CFTC compared to the SEC, which has made these markets attractive to industries like crypto.

The episode doesn't shy away from controversial topics, including the politicization of trans athletes in sports. Torre notes the rarity of actual trans athletes competing, yet acknowledges the issue's potency as a political tool, as illustrated by figures like Riley Gaines.

Pablo Torre's show is also highlighted, showcasing his range in covering diverse topics from sports narratives to investigative journalism. His analysis of the sports-political nexus provides a compelling lens through which to understand current cultural dynamics.

Finally, the episode provides a brief mention of upcoming logistics for the show, noting that the next episode will be delayed due to the team's travel to Australia or New Zealand.

Key Insights