In recent months, two phrases, “F*** Joe Biden” and “Let’s Go Brandon,” have become vocal expressions of dissent against the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden. What started as chants primarily heard during college football games has since made their way into the NFL and other sports events, raising questions about the impact and implications of these controversial expressions.
The Origin of “F*** Joe Biden”
The explicit chant “F*** Joe Biden” first gained notoriety during college football games, particularly in conservative-leaning Southern states. It began as an expression of dissatisfaction and has since evolved into a chant that resonates with some Americans who are critical of President Biden’s policies and actions.
The Emergence of “Let’s Go Brandon”
Simultaneously, another phrase emerged in response to the “F*** Joe Biden” chant. “Let’s Go Brandon” is a slogan and internet meme that gained popularity as a more sanitized alternative to the explicit expression. It is based on a moment during a televised interview at the Talladega Superspeedway when NBC Sports reporter Kelli Stavast incorrectly described the chant in the background as “Let’s Go Brandon,” sparking the meme. This phrase, too, has found its way into public discourse and has been used as a veiled expression of criticism against President Biden.
The Migration to the NFL
Both “F*** Joe Biden” and “Let’s Go Brandon” didn’t remain confined to college campuses. They found their way into NFL games, particularly at the MetLife Stadium during New York Jets games. This is noteworthy because New York is traditionally a stronghold for the Democratic Party, making the presence of these chants in such areas all the more striking.
Political Implications
The widespread use of both phrases raises questions about the political climate and the sentiment of some Americans toward the current administration. They reflect a segment of the population that is vocal about their disapproval of President Biden’s policies and decisions, including the controversial vaccine mandate, the withdrawal from Afghanistan, and a drone strike that resulted in civilian casualties.
Unity and Division
These chants and phrases have not only been heard at sporting events but have also made appearances at other public gatherings. For instance, during a game between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees, rival fans joined together in criticizing President Biden. The unity in dissent demonstrates the polarized nature of American politics, with individuals from opposing sides finding common ground in their criticism.
Veracity Concerns
It’s worth noting that there have been instances where digital alterations were made to footage to make it appear as though crowds were chanting “F*** Joe Biden” or “Let’s Go Brandon” when they were actually shouting other phrases. Such alterations emphasize the potential for misinformation and manipulation in the digital age.
The “F*** Joe Biden” and “Let’s Go Brandon” chants, which started as relatively small phenomena, have grown into nationwide expressions of dissent. While they may be viewed as legitimate forms of free speech, they also underscore the deep divisions within American society. President Joe Biden faces a challenging task in bridging these divides and working to address the concerns of those who express their dissatisfaction through such vocal means.
