Dave Zirin Delivers His Most Outrageous Take Yet on Football and Politics.

In light of Tim Walz’s recent “Get-Out-The-Dudes-To-Vote-For-The-Airhead-Feminist Tour,” it’s worth revisiting a column by real liberal sports writer Dave Zirin that addresses a significant challenge for Democrats this election cycle: winning over young voters.

In August, Zirin, the sports editor for The Nation, criticized the Democrats for leaning on Walz’s football coaching background at the DNC in Chicago. He cautioned that while trying to connect with voters through the universally loved sport could make a vice presidential nominee appear more relatable, it might actually “cost Harris and Walz the election.” His concerns reflect the serious issues Democrats face in engaging younger audiences.