Dave Portnoy sits down with Jesse Watters to talk about The Washington Post writing a hit piece on Portnoy and his pizza festival and then later cancelling interviews, as well as the state of journalism in the US.

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, was no stranger to controversy. His unapologetic style and sharp wit had earned him both loyal fans and fierce critics. But now, sitting down for an interview with a prominent news anchor, Dave was ready to tackle some of the toughest questions about his reputation.

The interview began with a lighthearted exchange about Dave’s choice of eyewear that day, which drew a chuckle from both the host and the audience. It was clear that despite his reputation, Dave could handle a little self-deprecating humor.

Then, the conversation took a more serious turn as the host asked Dave why he believed The Washington Post had such a strong dislike for him. Dave pondered for a moment before offering his perspective.

“In this era, ever since Trump came on the scene, I feel like people’s brains just got broken,” Dave said with a wry smile. He continued, “The Washington Post is widely left-leaning, like the New York Times and Business Insider. Unfortunately, I can predict whether I’m going to be talked about positively or negatively just by the name of the organization. If it’s Fox, it’s probably going to be good. If it’s The Washington Post, it’s going to be bad. That’s a sad state for both sides, to be honest.”

The host pressed further, asking if Dave believed the negative attention was due to his association with Trump. Dave nodded, acknowledging that his connection to the former president had indeed painted a target on his back.

“I think they view me as a symbol of that entitled, bro culture,” Dave explained. “And that’s something that’s despised by The Washington Post and the New York Times. We’ve become a symbol of that culture, and they want to take us down.”

The host then delved into the disturbing trend of media outlets not just disagreeing with figures like Dave but actively trying to destroy their entire enterprises. Dave pondered this shift and pointed out that journalism had become more like activism.

“They’re not looking for the truth,” Dave asserted. “There’s not an ounce of journalism left. They have no interest in the truth, none.”

The conversation then turned to a specific incident where a journalist had written a hit piece about Dave. He revealed that, despite his numerous attempts to engage with the journalist and set the record straight, his efforts had been in vain.

“Emily Steele was the author’s name,” Dave recalled. “I reached out to her probably 10 to 15 times, begging for a sit-down. I said I will tell you anything you want to know. I am an open book, maybe too much of an open book.”

The host chimed in, suggesting that perhaps journalists were afraid that if they got to know Dave personally, th