Posts Tagged ‘Politics’

Linda McMahon’s Education Secretary Nomination Advances to Senate

Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon’s nomination for Secretary of Education has moved to a final Senate confirmation vote following a 12-11 party-line approval from the Senate HELP Committee. McMahon, who previously led the Small Business Administration (2017-2019), was selected by President Trump to head the Department of Education.

During her confirmation hearings, McMahon addressed Trump’s criticism of the department, acknowledging that its abolishment would require congressional approval. She outlined her vision to improve efficiency and reduce bureaucracy while committing to maintain funding for crucial programs including Title I for low-income schools, Pell Grants for college students, and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

McMahon also pledged to enforce Trump’s executive orders on transgender athletes in school sports, antisemitism policies, and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in educational institutions.

Republican senators have praised McMahon’s business experience and leadership qualities. Senator Bill Cassidy, HELP Committee chairman, noted her “extensive experience in managing large organizations will be invaluable in streamlining the Department of Education and improving outcomes

Sami Zayn on WWE Keeping Politics Out of Storylines: ‘It’s an Escape’

WWE Superstar Sami Zayn recently shared his thoughts on why the company avoids political themes in its storytelling, contrasting the current approach with past eras when real-world conflicts often influenced wrestling narratives.

During a media call on Monday to promote this weekend’s WWE Elimination Chamber event from Toronto, Zayn talks about professional wrestling’s history of reflected societal issues, citing past examples such as Sergeant Slaughter’s controversial Iraq storyline in the early ’90s and the presence of stereotypical foreign villains in the mid-20th century. However, he pointed out that today’s WWE takes a different stance, deliberately steering clear of political content. In response to a question from Jan Murphy of the Toronto Sun, Zayn said:

“Wrestling is sort of a reflective art form. It mirrors societies and the times,” Zayn explained. “Now, I think in a strange way, we’re doing a sort of weird anti-reflection reflection wherein we just simply don’t touch politics. As a company, nothing about the political climate is reflected in the product anymore.”

Zayn attributed this shift to the heightened sensitivity surrounding political issues, as well as WWE’s role as a form of escapism. He suggested that, in an era where real-world challenges like economic concerns impact daily life, wrestling provides a space where fans can disconnect from those stresses.

“WWE is meant to be like an escape from all that stuff—especially when people feel it in their day-to-day lives,” he added.

The approach marks a departure from previous decades, when wrestling often incorporated contemporary political tensions into its storytelling. While some fans appreciate the shift toward pure entertainment, others debate whether avoiding political narratives entirely limits creative possibilities.

Escapism vs. Realism in Wrestling

WWE’s current stance reflects a broader trend in entertainment, where some franchises choose to keep politics out of their content to maintain universal appeal. With a diverse fanbase spanning multiple demographics and political beliefs, WWE’s decision to remain neutral allows it to cater to as wide an audience as possible.

At the same time, some wrestling promotions continue to embrace real-world issues in their storylines, showing that there remains an appetite for blending reality with fiction. For now, the company appears committed to maintaining a space where fans can simply enjoy the spectacle without outside distractions, brother.

Triple H, Stephanie & Shane Join Linda McMahon At Education Secretary Hearing

Linda McMahon, former WWE CEO, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee today for her confirmation hearing as Secretary of Education. McMahon was joined by her daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Paul ‘Triple’ Levesque at the proceedings at the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Levesque was seated directly behind the nominee while Stephanie was to the right of her husband. Linda’s son Shane was also present alongside his wife Marissa.

McMahon’s hearing comes at a pivotal moment for the Department of Education, as President Trump has openly declared his intention to eliminate the agency. Trump, who McMahon worked for during his first presidency, has referred to the department as a “big con job.” Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has already reduced the department’s funding by nearly $1 billion, raising questions about McMahon’s potential role in leading an agency marked for dissolution.

McMahon brings significant business acumen from her tenure transforming WWE into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise though has little background in education. Though McMahon previously served for one year on Connecticut’s State Board of Education, her departure came with controversy. After her exit, it was revealed that she had misled the board when applying, claiming she had a Bachelors degree in Education. Her degree is actually in Frnech.

This confirmation process represents a crucial juncture for federal education policy as McMahon may be tasked with overseeing major structural changes. With McMahon dedicating her loyalty to Trump/Musk’s plot to abolish the department, her time leading the DOE may be a short one if confirmed.

Pres. Trump Names Linda McMahon In Efforts to End Dept. of Education

U.S. President and WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump has planns to dismantle the Department of Education, an act that would have profound effects on the education of children throughout the country. Speaking from the Oval Office this week, Trump named former WWE CEO and his pick to lead the Department Linda McMahon as a key player in his plans.

“I want Linda to put herself out of a job… We spend more per pupil than any other country in the world and we’re ranked at the bottom of the list… What I want to do is let the states run schools.”

McMahon’s Unlikely Appointment

Linda McMahon’s appointment to lead the DOE spawned controversy from the moment the former WWE CEO’s name was announced. McMahon has no formal training as an educator. In 2010, McMahon stepped down from the Connecticut Board of Education. Shortly after, it was shared that McMahon had falsely claimed to have a degree in education from East Carolina University in 1969, when her degree was actually in French.

Trump’s plans to dismantle the DOE has been met with criticism by some. Currently the Dept. of Education distributes federal funding to state and local education agencies, supports special education, and ensures equal access to education, among other tasks.

Despite being a WWE Hall of Famer, Trump’s political leanings have been ignored by the wrestling juggernaut for the most part. However, the McMahons were present at Trump’s New Year’s Eve celebration, showing the family’s connection to the President. After being booed during Raw’s debut on Netflix, Hulk Hogan has blamed the response on his support for Trump and his past as part of the NWO.

Logan Paul Attends Donald Trump’s Presidential Inauguration

What’s a United States presidential inauguration without a touch of WWE flair? On Monday, WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump will reclaim his ‘United States Presidential Championship’—making history as only the second president to serve non-consecutive terms. The first was Grover Cleveland, who held office as the 22nd and 24th president.

United States Presidential Championship
Rendering of a fictional United States Presidential Championship

WWE and the Trump Inauguration

In addition to Trump’s administration once again including former WWE President Linda McMahon as a key cabinet member (Education Secretary), the inauguration festivities promise plenty of star power. Many of the stars have direct ties to WWE.

Social media is already abuzz with photos of the Paul brothers and McGregor showcasing their signature showmanship at the celebration.

The Second Trump Inauguration

President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration is set to take place on Monday, January 2025, in Washington, D.C., marking the formal beginning of his presidency. The event is expected to draw a mix of high-profile attendees, including prominent figures from the world of sports and entertainment.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has credited Trump for his support of international soccer, is also planning to be present. The day’s festivities will include the swearing-in ceremony, followed by black-tie receptions co-hosted by major industry leaders, such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, alongside influential sports team owners.

Dana White with Bush, Obama and Clinton at Trump's Inauguration
UFC CEO Dana White in “good company” at Donald Trump’s second US Presidential Inauguration

Attendees are expected to celebrate Trump’s ties to the sports world, as many of these athletes and officials have publicly expressed their support for the president-elect.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for coverage of the professional wrestling aspects of United States President Donald Trump’s second Presidential Inauguration.

Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

Controversial professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan is in a celebratory mood one week after getting booed out of the Intuit Dome at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere.

Hogan appeared on Jesse Watters Primetime on FOX News last night to share his thoughts on the state of the country and his excitement for Donald Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Hogan pounded a beer and declared, “We’re already celebrating the inauguration, even before it happens because we know we’re getting our country back!”

According to Hogan, it now feels like a “dark cloud” has been lifted since Trump’s re-election. He says the “whiners and criers” brought the United States to the brink of destruction, but things will get back on track, jack, next week when Trump is inaugurated. When pressed about his plans for the event, Hogan replied:

“Well, there’s a little birdie that says I might just be there pulling a few shenanigans, brother.”

“I’ve got my ‘Trump Pump’ back on and I’m gonna be ridin’ dirty all the way to that inauguration. I cannot wait for him to be sworn in, brother!

It’s a new day, it’s a new country, and we’re gonna make America great again because we’ve got a real American President, brother!”

Hulk Hogan teases attending Donald Trump’s Second United States Presidential Inauguration

The 60th Presidential Inauguration is set to take place on Monday, January 20th, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Mark Henry Claims Hulk Hogan’s Made No Effort to Address Racist Comments

Catch Hulk Hogan’s appearance on Jesse Watters Live (January 13, 2025):

Kane Warns The Rock Against A Brand-Hurting Future In Politics

WWE Hall of Famer Glenn ‘Kane’ Jacobs has advised Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson from entering politics, especially given the ongoing toxic climate. Sitting down with Going Ringside, Jacobs, the current mayor of Knox County, Tennessee, argued that Johnson would only hurt his brand if he entered the political ring.

“Everybody likes Dwayne, no matter where you are in the political spectrum, because he’s a great entertainer… gotta remember that no matter what you say in politics, 50% of the people are just gonna knee-jerk disagree with you.”

Johnson has yet to enter politics but it is something that WWE’s Final Boss has been mulling over for some time. Examples include:

While several wrestling names have entered politics, including Jesse Ventura, Matt Morgan and Trump’s pick for Education Secretary Linda McMahon, it remains to be seen if Johnson makes the move. While Jacobs is against the idea, and Johnson himself has said running for the highest office is off the table, we all know that politics, like wrestling, is an unpredictable game.

Trump Nominates Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon as Education Secretary

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon as the next Secretary of Education. McMahon, co-founder and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), previously served as the Administrator of the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019.

McMahon’s appointment aligns with Trump’s vision to reduce federal oversight in education, as he has expressed intentions to eliminate the Department of Education. Her extensive experience in business and her previous cabinet role highlight her as a significant figure in the WWE community, now poised to influence national education policy.

Linda McMahon’s ties to Donald Trump span both wrestling and politics. Their partnership began in the 1980s when WWE ran events at Trump’s Atlantic City properties, culminating in Trump’s memorable appearance at WrestleMania 23 in 2007.

McMahon later transitioned to politics, serving as Trump’s Small Business Administration chief from 2017 to 2019. She continued supporting his initiatives as America First Policy Institute’s leader and co-chair of his transition team.

Donald Trump nominates Linda McMahon for United States Secretary of Education

Now, with her expected return to the cabinet as Secretary of Education, McMahon would oversee one of the smallest federal agencies – one that manages federal student aid, educational research, and anti-discrimination efforts while accounting for less than 10% of public school funding nationwide.

Pro Wrestlers Currently Serving in Office: WWE, NWA, TNA names and more

The world of professional wrestling and politics have long shared a unique connection, with several notable wrestlers transitioning from the ring to public office.

As of November 2024, several former WWE, NWA, and TNA (now IMPACT Wrestling) stars are serving in elected positions across various levels of government. Here, we explore the current landscape of wrestlers-turned-politicians and their roles in shaping public policy.

WWE Superstars in Politics

Kane (Glenn Jacobs) – Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee

Glenn Jacobs, better known of course to wrestling fans as Kane, has been serving as the Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee since 2018. 

The WWE Hall of Famer and former World Heavyweight Champion has successfully transitioned from his intimidating in-ring persona to a respected political figure.

Jacobs, a member of the Republican Party, has focused on fiscal responsibility and economic development during his tenure.

Matt Morgan – Deputy Mayor of Longwood, Florida

Former WWE superstar and TNA alumni Matt Morgan has made significant strides in local politics. After serving as the Mayor of Longwood, Florida from 2019 to 2020, Morgan currently holds the position of Deputy Mayor. 

His political career began in 2017 when he was elected as the District 4 City Commissioner of Longwood. Morgan’s transition from wrestling to politics demonstrates the diverse skill set that professional wrestlers can bring to public service.

NWA and TNA Alumni in Office

Rick Steiner – Cherokee County School Board, Georgia

Rick Steiner, one half of the legendary Steiner Brothers tag team, has been serving on the Cherokee County School Board in Georgia since 2006. Representing District 4, Steiner also holds the position of Board Vice-Chair.

Raymond Rougeau – Mayor of Rawdon, Quebec

Former WWE and NWA wrestler Raymond Rougeau has been serving as the Mayor of Rawdon, Quebec since 2021. Rougeau’s political career demonstrates the global reach of wrestlers entering politics, extending beyond the United States to Canada.

Other Notable Wrestling Personalities in Politics

Jesse Ventura – Former Governor of Minnesota

While no longer in office, Jesse “The Body” Ventura’s tenure as Governor of Minnesota from 1998 to 2003 remains one of the most high-profile examples of a wrestler in politics. 

Ventura’s successful gubernatorial run as an Independent candidate paved the way for other wrestlers to consider political careers.

Antonio Inoki – Former Member of the Japanese House of Councillors

The late Antonio Inoki, founder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, served two terms in the Japanese House of Councillors.

His political career, which included diplomatic missions to North Korea, showcased the potential for wrestlers to engage in international relations.

Wrestling and Politics: How Donald Trump brought WWE to Elections and the White House

Donald Trump’s journey from the world of business (with WWE along the way) to the Oval Office is a story of the power of showmanship and the blurred lines between entertainment and politics.

As the only WWE Hall of Famer to become President of the United States (so far), Trump’s political career has been significantly influenced by his experiences in professional wrestling.

The Trump-WWE Connection

Early Involvement

Trump’s relationship with WWE (then WWF) began in the late 1980s when he hosted WrestleMania IV and V at his Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. 

This marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership that would shape both his public persona and political strategy.

Battle of the Billionaires

One of Trump’s most memorable WWE moments came in 2007 with the “Battle of the Billionaires” at WrestleMania 23. 

This event, which pitted Trump’s chosen Superstar Bobby Lashley against WWE Chairman Vince McMahon’s chosen Superstar Umaga in a hair vs. hair match, showcased the level of hype that The Apprentice

The Art of Kayfabe in Politics

Trump’s political approach bears a striking resemblance to the storytelling techniques used in professional wrestling. The concept of “kayfabe” – the portrayal of staged events as real – became a cornerstone of his campaign strategy.

In wrestling, a “heel” is a villain character that breaks rules and provokes strong reactions. Trump seemingly adopted this role in politics, using provocative statements and unconventional tactics to garner attention and energize his base.

The Impact on Political Discourse

Trump’s wrestling-inspired approach to politics often prioritizes emotional impact over policy substance.

This strategy has tapped into existing disillusionment with traditional political systems, allowing Trump to present himself as an “outsider” fighting against the establishment.

Just as wrestling events are designed to be spectacles, Trump turned political rallies and debates into must-see events.

His ability to create memorable moments and soundbites has been crucial in maintaining media attention and public interest.

The Wrestling Community’s Influence

Trump’s connections to the wrestling world have continued to play a role in his political career. Wrestling legends like Hulk Hogan and The Undertaker have publicly endorsed Trump, lending their star power to his campaigns.

By engaging with wrestling personalities and appearing on wrestling-related podcasts, Trump’s campaign has sought to reach younger male voters and those who might not typically engage with traditional political media.

The Double-Edged Sword of Entertainment Politics

Advantages of the Wrestling Approach

Trump’s wrestling-inspired tactics have allowed him to:

  • Generate unprecedented media coverage
  • Create a strong emotional connection with his base
  • Simplify complex issues into easily digestible narratives

Potential Drawbacks

However, this approach also carries risks:

  • It can prioritize entertainment over substantive policy discussions
  • It may further polarize the political landscape
  • There’s a danger of trivializing serious issues

The Legacy of Trump’s WWE-Inspired Politics

Trump’s success has inspired other politicians to adopt similar tactics, potentially changing the nature of political campaigns and discourse in the long term.

As the lines between politics and entertainment continue to blur, it remains to be seen how this will affect the democratic process and public engagement with political issues.

Linda McMahon to Lead Trump’s Department of Commerce (Report)

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House in January 2025, speculation is mounting about who will fill key positions in his administration. Among the names being floated for high-level roles is Linda McMahon, former WWE executive and previous member of Trump’s first-term cabinet.

McMahon is a frontrunner to lead the Department of Commerce as Secretary in Trump’s second administration, according to Charles Gasparino, Senior Correspondent at Fox Business. The Department of Commerce plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and opportunity, making it a key position in any administration.

Linda McMahon’s Political Background

Linda McMahon, 76, is no stranger to Trump’s inner circle. She served as the Administrator of the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019 during Trump’s first term. After resigning from this position, McMahon went on to chair America First Action, a super PAC supporting Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign.

Qualifications and Experience

McMahon’s background in business and her previous experience in the Trump administration make her a fairly logical choice for a cabinet position:

  • Co-founder and former CEO of WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
  • Previous service as Administrator of the Small Business Administration
  • Experience in fundraising and political operations

Campaign Contributions and Support

McMahon has been a significant financial supporter of Trump’s political ambitions:

  • 2016: She donated $6 million to Rebuilding America Now, a pro-Trump super PAC
  • 2020: She reportedly raised approximately $83 million for Trump’s (unsuccessful) 2020 campaign.
  • 2024: McMahon is said to have contributed over $10 million to Trump’s campaign effort through the America First Action super PAC.

Other Key Appointments in the Trump Administration

As Trump assembles his team for a second term, several other appointments have been announced or are being considered:

Confirmed Appointments

  • Susie Wiles: Named as White House Chief of Staff, making her the first woman to hold this position
  • Tom Homan: Designated as “border czar,” overseeing immigration and border security initiatives
  • Elise Stefanik: Selected as the ambassador to the United Nations

Potential Cabinet Members

While many positions remain to be filled, some names being discussed include:

  • Bill Hagerty: Under consideration for Secretary of State
  • Marco Rubio: Reportedly being considered for a high-level position, possibly Secretary of State
  • Mike Waltz: Mentioned as a potential candidate for Secretary of Defense

The Confirmation Process

With Republicans now in control of the Senate, many of Trump’s cabinet nominees are expected to face a smoother confirmation process compared to his first term. However, some controversial picks may still face scrutiny and potential challenges during hearings.

Ric Flair Says “Learn To Love It!” After Donald Trump’s Victory

Those opposed to Donald Trump will just have to “learn to love it” according to Ric Flair, following Trump’s re-election to President of the United States. The 78-year-old billionaire bested Democratic nominee Kamala Harris earlier this week, winning both the Electoral College and the popular vote.

On X, Flair shared his clear support for Trump and gave some advice to those not on board the Trump Train.

Flair isn’t the only wrestling personality backing Trump, as Hulk Hogan has repeatedly endorsed the Republican party leader. Jake Hager also shared several comments supporting Trump on election night, in addition to claiming Tony Khan is a “communist” who threatened to fire him for supporting the President-Elect. Hager has deleted several of his tweets and has yet to provide proof of his claims.

The election news comes as a crushing blow to many in the wrestling world, with Trevor Lee saying he’s disappointed in the U.S. for electing its first convicted felon President. Mick Foley and Dave Bautista had endorsed Harris ahead of this year’s election, while Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson endorsed the Biden/Harris ticket that defeated Trump and then-Vice President Mike Pence in 2020.

Clearly, this election didn’t go the way many had hoped, though Flair, Trump, and others in wrestling could not be happier. It remains to be seen what awaits the United States in Trump’s second term, which will see Linda McMahon play a crucial role in the transition.

Linda McMahon Joins Trump’s 2024 Transition Team as Co-Chair

Linda McMahon will have a key role in helping Donald Trump prepare for his second term as Untied States President. The former President & CEO of WWE was recently named as one of the co-chairs of Donald Trump’s presidential transition team, along with Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald.

As co-chair of the transition team, McMahon will help with identifying and vetting potential political appointees, drafting executive orders, formulating strategies to implement Trump’s policy initiatives and overseeing the policy side of the transition.

Linda McMahon held a significant role in President Trump’s first administration as a member of his cabinet and head of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during Trump’s first term.

190329170416 president trump linda mcmahon palm beach presser
President Donald Trump and former WWE President Linda McMahon

After stepping down from her role as head of the SBA in April 2019, she became chair the conservative America First Action PAC. McMahon has been a significant financial supporter of Trump’s campaigns, contributing more than $10 million to help elect him in 2024.

Can President Trump Pardon Vince McMahon?

She spoke at the Republican National Convention back in July 2024:

Hulk Hogan Aims To Form ‘MAGA Powers’ Tag Team With RFK Jr.

Hulk Hogan may have found a new tag team partner in Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the WWE Hall of Famer says he wants to help kids get healthy and in shape.

Throughout the course of 2024, RFK Jr. made his own bid for President of the United States, running first as a Democrat then later as an Independent, but due to America’s established two-party system, the son of Bobby Kennedy found the deck stacked against him. That made him to decide to align with Donald Trump, who promised RFK Jr. that he’d have him be a factor in health and enviromental issues if he were to be elected as President.

RFK Jr. has been on the campaign run for Trump and so has Hogan, who not only showed up at the notorious rally that took place in Madison Square Garden, but has been making media appearances too.

Hogan was just on Fox News with Jesse Waters, who asked Hogan if Trump wins, would he play any role in helping the Trump adminstration out. Hogan certainly had an idea in mind, noting that in wrestling you have to draw a big angle and put “hot spice on a feud.”

“This Robert Kennedy Jr., he’s onto something with nutrition, but he’s gonna tag team us up as the Mega Powers – the ‘MAGA Powers,’ there ya go. ‘The MAGA Powers’: RFK Jr. and Hulk Hogan, he could get them to eat the right food and I could get all of our kids in shape, brother.”

There’s a great deal of wrestling legends who have picked sides as to who they’ll be voting for next week, but several made clear they’ll remain friends with one another despite having political differences.

Watch Donald Trump on The Undertaker’s Podcast (Part 1)

The first part of US Presidential candidate Donald Trump’s appearance on The Undertaker’s Six Feet Under with Mark Calloway podcast is now online.

The two WWE Hall of Famers discuss a wide range of topics here, including pro wrestling, politics and everything in between. They delved into Trump’s early fascination with wrestling and how he became involved with the sport over time. Trump, an avid wrestling fan for decades, was curious about what’s “real” and what’s not inside the squared circle, asking if wrestlers ever genuinely get angry during matches and what it feels like to take bumps and perform in the ring.

The discussion then shifted towards wrestling legends, with both sharing thoughts on the greatest wrestlers of all time and the current generation of stars shaping the industry today.

Trump pulled back the curtain on his own world, sharing some of his personal motivations, and what keeps him going at such a hectic pace at 78 years old.

Finally, Trump reflects on showing more of his personal side to the public, and of course, the upcoming election and what’s at stake for the future of the country.

Dave Bautista Shreds “Weak, Tubby Toddler” Donald Trump’s Masculinity

The United States is mere weeks away from its national election, in which Donald Trump aims to regain the White House after losing four years ago. Trump’s never been shy from making fun of others and on the latest Jimmy Kimmel Live, WWE legend Dave Bautista gave Trump a taste of his own medicine.

Amid an intense workout, Bautista told men who think Trump is tough that he’s not. The former WWE World Champion poked fun at Trump for wearing “more make-up than Dolly Parton,” later adding that the two have similar ‘jugs.’ To embarrassing clips of the Republican leader, Bautista also lays into how Trump drinks water and his deferment from conflict due to alleged bone spurs.

The Animal also brings up some of the controversies surrounding Trump, including reports that he “creeps around beauty pageant dressing rooms” and that he “bends over for Putin.” During this latter claim, an image of a headline, alleging that Trump chose to give Putin COVID-19 tests during the pandemic, is featured.

Concluding his comments about Trump, Bautista brings up the various things that the former President is ‘afraid’ of before ending with some of Trump’s own verbiage.

“He’s afraid that real American men will find out that he’s a weak, tubby, toddler. What’s wrong tough guy? Did someone grab you by the p***y? Whiny little b***h.”

– Dave Bautista to Donald Trump

Americans will go to the polls on Tuesday, November 5, to decide between Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, or one of the other candidates running for office. While everyone who votes has the right to keep who they voted for private, it’s pretty clear who Dave Bautista won’t be selecting.

Updated: WrestleMania 2026 Location Not Locked In Yet

The location for WrestleMania 42 in 2026 has not been locked in just yet.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro got people talking when he stated that the biggest wrestling show of the year will be coming back to Philadelphia so soon, after hosting the PPV just this year.

In a Q&A video posted on X, Shapiro was asked if anything ‘cool’ was scheduled in Philadelphia for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

In the answer to the question, the Governor counted a number of big sporting events that were scheduled for the area, including the FIFA World Cup, Major League Baseball All-Star Game and WrestleMania.

This inclusion was surprising as WWE usually makes a big deal of any WrestleMania developments and fans would expect a big announcement if the location had indeed been decided.

WrestleMania 42 Location Not Locked In

PWInsider provided an update on the situation after the video went viral saying that WWE sources ‘across the board’ were pretty surprised by this claim as it was not something that had been discussed internally.

The site also claimed that a well-placed source who would be involved in such decision-making had expressed that a location for WrestleMania 42 had not been locked in as of Saturday morning.

Josh Shapiro has since taken down the original video, further suggesting that he might have been talking about some other event or WWE as a whole instead of the specific show.

The Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia hosted WrestleMania 40 with an attendance record of 120,239 across both nights. Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas has been announced to host the 41th edition of the show on April 19 & 20 next year. 

Update: Manuel Bonder, Spokesman for Governor Shapiro issued a statement to Fightful Select confirming that the claim made in the video was a mistake:

“This statement was mistaken, and we apologize for the confusion amid all the incredible events Pennsylvania is excited to host in 2026. While WrestleMania won’t be here in ‘26, we look forward to continuing to work with WWE and wrestling fans all across our Commonwealth to bring more great events to PA in the future,”

In addition, WrestleVotes sources note that WWE supposedly decided on the location for WrestleMania 42 months ago but they’re not ready to make the announcement just yet:

Jesse Ventura Pitched a WWE Political Party to Vince McMahon

Vince McMahon may have approved some unique angles during his time, but the idea of a WWE political party proved too much for the billionaire. On a recent edition of the Insight podcast, WWE Hall of Famer/Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura shared the angle he pitched to McMahon.

 “I went out to him and I said ‘Vince, we can do an angle right now. You can come out with the WWE and say we’re going to have our own nominee for president, the WWE party, the World Wrestling Party.'”

Ventura’s idea included getting ballot access in all 50 states, while on-screen, McMahon would tease that he’d be the party’s official candidate in the race to the White House. Just as McMahon would announce his candidacy, he’d be interrupted by ‘The Body.’

“I’m a governor. I’m the natural WWE candidate for president, then you do a schmoz where Vince and I get two wrestlers to represent us. Whoever wins gets the nomination.”

The match would see Ventura’s representative get the win, confirming Jesse as the official Presidential candidate representing the WWE Party. When asked why the angle didn’t play out, Ventura shared that McMahon didn’t bother to tell him ‘no.’

“He didn’t even bother to call me to turn me down. I thought that was the most disrespectful thing…  If he did just called me and said, Jesse, it’s too crazy. It’s too hokey. I don’t think we can do it. I would have said fine. I gave it a try. But he didn’t even call me back.”

While the WWE Party never left the drawing board, McMahon would be represented in a high-profile match with something on the line at WrestleMania 23. The ‘Battle of the Billionaires’ saw Donald Trump’s representative Bobby Lashley defeat McMahon’s Umaga, resulting in McMahon having his head shaved bald.

Wrestling & Politics

The WWE Party won’t be on the ballot this November, but plenty of wrestlers have attempted to enter the world of politics. Glenn ‘Kane’ Jacobs currently serves as the Mayor of Knox County, TN, and recently shared some strong words for the Democratic Party’s Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.

The late Antonio Inoki was elected twice to Japan’s House of Councillors while The Great Sasuke was elected to Iwate’s Prefectural Assembly in 2003. In 2017, Linda McMahon, who lost two senate campaigns, was appointed Administrator, Small Business Administration, under President Trump.

Perhaps the most internationally recognized wrestler to enter office is known more for his political career than his time in the ring. Before his rise to political history, Abraham Lincoln wrestled in his teens and reportedly trained in catch-as-catch-can wrestling.

The future President held championship gold by the age of 21. According to eyewitness accounts at the time, a frustrated Lincoln once lifted an opponent who was fighting dirty by the neck, raised him in the air, and slammed him into the ground, a move not too different from today’s Chokeslam.

Harold von Schmidt for Esquire in 1949 — Photo from “New Salem, a History of Lincoln’s Alma Mater”, Joseph M. Di Cola

Ventura himself served as Governor of Minnesota from 1999 to 2003. The WWE Hall of Famer has teased running for President in the past but has never gone much further than that. He has endorsed the Harris/Walz ticket for this November’s election.

Mayor Kane: Kamala Harris & Tim Walz Are No ‘Dusty Rhodes’ On The Mic

Former WWE Superstar Kane thinks U.S. Presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz could benefit from a few ‘promo’ classes at the WWE Performance Center.

Kane (Glenn Jacobs) currently serves as the Republican Mayor of Knox County, TN. He’s an ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump’s campaign, and was not impressed with what he saw at last week’s Democratic National Convention. While the Republican convention featured speeches from luminaries such as Hulk Hogan, Linda McMahon and Dana White, Jacobs feels Harris and Walz were a far cry from iconic ‘stick men’ like Dusty Rhodes.

“Harris/Walz are spitting out catch phrases faster than Dusty Rhodes with an open mic on a Saturday morning. Dusty’s were entertaining and iconic. Their’s, not so much.”

Jacobs also noted that Harris and Walz have avoided another aspect where Rhodes made his money in by stating, “Dusty also did interviews.”

President Kane? Glenn Jacobs Discusses Possibly Running for President

While there’s at least three WWE Hall Of Famers not rooting for the Harris/Walz ticket in Jacobs, Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan the two do have two in their corner. Jesse Ventura, who like Walz was also the Governor of Minnesota, put his support behind Harris. Ventura has notoriously been against either major party in the past but explained in an interview that it was time to have a woman in the Oval Office.

The other legend backing the Harris/Walz campaign is Kevin Nash, who ran into Kane at SummerSlam. Nash, a noted Democrat, but made clear to Kane he had no problems with the ‘Big Red Republican.’ On a recent episode of The Kliq This Podcast, Nash echoed Kane’s political aspirations before the aforementioned interview took place and according to Big Sexy, Kane cited how dirty of a business the political game was.

Hulk Hogan Jokes About Body Slamming Kamala Harris

During an appearance this week at the Thirsty Cowboy in Medina, Ohio, wrestling icon Hulk Hogan engaged with the crowd in a rowdy and controversial manner, directing remarks at U.S. Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Hogan, known for his flamboyant promos, teased that he might “body slam Kamala Harris” and even suggested he could “drop the leg” on her. The crowd reacted enthusiastically, but Hogan quickly downplayed the remarks, emphasizing that he was only joking, saying, “That was not me, that was the beers talking.”

The event was part of Hogan’s promotion for his new beer, Real American Beer, a premium light lager introduced this summer, which bills itself as “brewed with 100% North American ingredients.” The incident, captured in an embedded video courtesy of TMZ Sports, has garnered mixed reactions.

Glenn Jacobs On If He Has Thought About Running For President

Glenn ‘Kane’ Jacobs has no desire to run for the office of president. The Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee recently appeared on Maintaining with Tyrus for an interview with fellow WWE alumni to talk about the current political landscape of the country.

During the interview, he was asked if the thought of running for president has ever crossed his mind, and Jacobs claimed that it hasn’t:

“No, it’s not. I have no desire to go to Washington DC. I think that there’s a lot of things that can be done at the local and state level, especially at the state level.”

So Many Things Going Up There: Glenn Jacobs

The former World Champion claimed that they can make things better in the country by making good policies at the state level. He went on to explain another reason why he doesn’t want to dive too deep into the politics of Washington:

“Washington, man, it’s just, there’s just so many things going on up there, and it really is a swamp. Good people go in, and they get frustrated because they can’t change, or in some cases, they just throw up their hands and leave, or sometimes they unfortunately become part of the machine because that’s the only way to survive.

So I really think that a lot of changes can be made, especially at the state level, which would be productive for where you live. Ultimately then that would be productive for the entire country.”

Kane is not the only wrestling star who has been asked this question in recent time. The Rock has been honest about considering the idea in the past and he has kept the door open for a future in politics.

The current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes was also inquired about it recently and he revealed that both the democratic and republican parties have made offers to him.

Glenn Jacobs Reacts To President Biden Ending His 2024 Campaign

Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura Talks Tim Walz, Hulk Hogan & Donald Trump

WWE Hall of Famer & former Governor of Minnesota Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura recently sat down with Rev. Al Sharpton on MSNBC to talk politics and the U.S. presidential election. Voters will go to the polls this November to elect either Vice President Kamala Harris or Former President Donald Trump as the next President of the United States.

On Tim Walz

Tim Walz is the current Governor of Minnesota and the running mate of Harris. In the interview, Ventura recalled Walz seeking his advice following his first victory in the race to be governor.

“He called me and set up a being with me to pick my brain. No other Governor has ever done that, Republican or Democrat but Tim Walz did. And what that showed me, Tim Walz is the kind of guy who’s out for success and he will reach across the aisle.”

Ventura also spoke about JD Vance’s attacks on Walz, as the running mate of Trump has accused Walz of ‘stolen valor’ despite Walz’s twenty years as an officer in the U.S. Army. Ventura explained that after twenty years, an officer can retire when they want to. Ventura added that, as a former Marine, he knows what it means to show respect to those who have served and that Vance should behave like a Marine.

On Hulk Hogan Endorsing Donald Trump

At the Republican National Convention, Hulk Hogan publicly endorsed Donald Trump and called the former President his hero. Ventura chuckled to himself as Sharpton reminded him of Hogan’s endorsement and recalled Hogan’s attempts to block Ventura’s effort to form a union in pro wrestling.

“It doesn’t surprise me to see Hogan with the Republicans because Hogan’s as anti-union as you can get… It was Hulk Hogan who ratted me out to Vince McMahon and I was fired and lost my job.”

On Donald Trump

Years before he dominated the Republican Party, Trump was part of the ‘Reform Party’ after being recruited by Ventura himself. The WWE Hall of Famer said that Trump is not the same man who came to him years ago and believes the billionaire’s politics are solely based on what benefits himself.

“Donald Trump is for Donald Trump. And Donald Trump is going to do whatever it is that supports Donald Trump… He saw that he could take over the Republican Party so he changed his views. He want from pro-choice to no rights for women’s reproductive. He’s gone far right.”

Ventura added that Trump’s claims of being a Christian man, one that is echoed by many of his supporters, are hollow.

“He’s trying to say he’s now a religious person. Well to me, if you’re going to be a religious person, you have to live it. And Donald Trump hardly lives it…. I’m an agnostic athiest and I think that I’m more religious than he is.”

Ventura suggested that Republicans would have had a far harsher response if Barack Obama had had multiple affairs while they “embrace” Trump.

Gov. Whitmer On Hulk Hogan Endorsing Donald Trump – ‘I’m An Iron Sheik Fan’

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has shared her support for the Iron Sheik after Hulk Hogan publicly endorsed Donald Trump for President. At the 2024 Republican National Convention, Hogan called Trump his “hero” and endorsed the 78-year-old to be a “real American.”

Appearing in Lansing, Michigan, Whitmer was asked for her thoughts on Hogan’s endorsement of Trump. She joked “This was the question I was hoping not to get asked tonight” and threw her support behind the Iron Sheik. While Whitmer spoke of Sheik being from Lansing, Michigan, this was the original Sheik Ed Farhat. The Iron Sheik, who passed away in June 2023, was born in Iran.

Hogan isn’t the only notable name in wrestling backing the former President. WWE Hall of Famer Glenn Jacobs is backing Trump as he has done for years. On Twitter, Jacobs, the Mayor of Knox County, TN, argued that Joe Biden was not fit to serve as President after the Democrat leader announced he would not seek re-election this November. Jacobs was at the RNC, as was Linda McMahon who delivered a speech before Hogan and Trump himself.

Whitmer has thrown her support behind Kamala Harris for the November election. The Vice President has been endorsed by several names so far, including President Biden.

Hulk Hogan Inspired To Support His Hero Donald Trump After Assassination Attempt

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, former WWE President & CEO Linda McMahon, and UFC President Dana White are among the speakers at Thursday’s closing night of the 2024 Republican National Convention. Hulk Hogan spoke with Bret Baier of Fox News about his presence at the event. The 12-time World Champion of WWE/WCW and nWo founding member likened his convention speech to body-slamming Andre the Giant.

Hulk Hogan Supporting Trump 2024

Hulk Hogan does not like what he’s seen in America since Trump left office in January 2021. He says the United States’ borders have “collapsed” while food and gas prices have skyrocketed.

”When they took at a shot at my hero Donald Trump, I realized that I couldn’t be silent anymore.

You know, I had to step up, I had to be a real American, just like all of these real Americans here and Donald Trump.”

– Hulk Hogan

Hogan joked about being Trump’s Vice Presidential running mate in 2015, but now he’s seriously committed to help send him back to Washington next year.

“I have a voice too and I want people to know it’s time to talk. It’s time to not be silent anymore.”

– Hulk Hogan

We’ll post footage from Hulk Hogan’s 2024 RNC speech when it’s available online.

Hulk Hogan to Speak at 2024 RNC Before Donald Trump’s Nomination

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan is slated to make an appearance at the Republican National Convention on Thursday night, just before WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump accepts the GOP nomination for President of the United States.

The wrestling legend will address the crowd ahead of Trump’s official acceptance speech on the final night of the convention, according to two senior campaign officials who spoke to NBC News. Trump’s nomination follows the recent announcement of Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his Vice Presidential running mate.

Linda McMahon & Kane Also at the 2024 RNC

WWE has had a presence at the 2024 RNC all week. Aside from the whole thing revolving around a Hall of Famer, former WWE President and and Trump’s former United States Administrator of the Small Business Administration Linda McMahon.

Linda McMahon Named One Of Donald Trump’s Top Political Donors

McMahon, a former member of Donald Trump’s Presidential Cabinet, bumped into a former WWE co-worker: Knox County, Tennessee Mayor Glen Jacobs (Kane).

Hulk Hogan & Donald Trump

Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump are friends dating back to the 1980’s. In recent years, Hogan has been a proud supporter of Trump’s US Presidential campaigns.

In 2015, when Trump was running for president, Hogan publicly stated that he wanted to be Trump’s running mate [CBSNews]. During another interaction with TMZ, Hogan was asked which 2016 presidential candidate he would like to have in the ring with him. Believe it or not, the Hulkster went into self-promotion mode, brother.

“I don’t want to be in the ring with any candidates, I want to be Trump’s running mate.”

– Hulk Hogan (2015)

Stay tuned for our continued coverage of Hulk Hogan speaking at the 2024 Republican National Convention later this evening.