Massively popular YouTube show turned down Kamala Harris pre-election interview: ‘Didn’t want to do any politics’
SUMMARY
Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign revealed that the popular YouTube show Hot Ones declined an interview request during the 2024 presidential race, citing its apolitical stance. Harris’ media strategy head, Stephanie Cutter, noted the campaign faced similar rejections from non-political platforms, highlighting challenges in connecting with broader audiences. Harris’ campaign leaders discussed these issues on the podcast Pod Save America, contrasting her difficulties with President-elect Donald Trump’s success in securing appearances on major podcasts and internet shows, including The Joe Rogan Experience and Barstool Sports’ Bussin with the Boys. Trump leveraged these platforms to tap into cultural conversations, according to Harris’ campaign chairwoman Jen O’Malley Dillon. Harris’ team reportedly turned down an invitation to Rogan’s studio, instead requesting a shorter interview at a different location, which Rogan declined.