Renowned American sportscaster, Bob Costas, has made headlines with his recent outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump and his supporters, labeling them as a “toxic cult”.
Costas made this bold statement on CNN’s “Smerconish” on Saturday. He expressed his scorn for Trump saying he is “by far the most disgraceful figure in modern presidential history. He’s only become more disgraceful since 2016 and since 2020.”
“He [Trump] is a bubbling cauldron of loathsome traits,” Costas shared with host Michael Smerconish.
Costas continued, expressing disbelief at Trump’s following: “You have to be in the throes of some sort of toxic delusion and in a toxic cult to believe that Donald Trump has ever been, in any sense, emotionally, psychologically, intellectually, or ethically fit to be president of the United States,” he said.
Costas’ remarks didn’t go unnoticed. Panelists on “The Big Weekend Show” on Sunday criticized his anti-Trump stance.
“From sports to saying Trump supporters are a cult … it was a deplorable moment for him,” said Fox News contributor Katie Pavlich.
Radio host Guy Benson pointed out the potential adverse effect of Costas’ statement, stating, “74, 75 million people in this country voted for Donald Trump. I’m not sure that’s a great look [for Costas].”
Lisa Boothe, another Fox News contributor, noted that the criticism by Costas would apply to whoever becomes the Republican presidential nominee in 2024.
“Let’s say Nikki Haley did get the nomination, but she’s not going to. He would be turning the same ire toward her, right? Remember, they called John McCain racist. Mitt Romney was a sexist. Basically, if you’re a Republican, you have a target on your back,” she stated.
The debate around Costas’ comments continues with many sharing their reactions on various platforms:
“Bob Costas used to be great. Covered sports with an intellectual bend & historical knowledge. Became overbearing in his commentary… It’s digressed to full-on personal & cultural elitism & disdain.”
Others were less impressed: “Costas has outlived his sell by date.”, “Bob needs to retire. Senility hitting him hard. Terrible announcer now.”