Sen. Josh Hawley came to the defense of Kansas City Chiefs place kicker Harrison Butker after his controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College. Butker’s speech focused on the importance of being “unapologetically Catholic,” which included criticisms of President Biden for his pro-abortion stance and support for young women in the “vocation” of marriage and motherhood. Butker’s reference to pride month as a “deadly sin” sparked backlash from both the media and the NFL, with the league distancing itself from Butker and stating that his views do not represent the organization.
Hawley, a Christian himself, publicly supported Butker on social media and in a radio interview. He posted a photo with Butker on X, expressing pride in their friendship. Hawley also commented on the surge in jersey sales for Butker, sarcastically thanking liberals for the increased demand. In an interview with KCMO Talk Radio, Hawley criticized the left for being “hilariously out of touch” with Butker’s views, defending the kicker’s right to express his faith and values.
Following Butker’s speech, sales of his jerseys for women skyrocketed, with the NFL selling out of his merchandise in the days that followed. Despite the controversy surrounding his remarks, Butker’s message resonated with many, leading to a surge in support and appreciation for his outspoken faith. The full text of Butker’s commencement address can be found online, allowing readers to see the content of his speech in its entirety and form their own opinions about the controversy surrounding it.
Hawley’s defense of Butker highlights the ongoing debate over freedom of speech and expression, particularly in the realm of religion and personal beliefs. The clash between Butker’s Catholic values and the criticism he faced from the media and the NFL underscores the challenges faced by individuals who choose to openly share their faith in public settings. Despite the backlash, Butker’s supporters have rallied around him, leading to an increase in jersey sales and a show of solidarity with the place kicker.
The controversy surrounding Butker’s speech also raises questions about the role of athletes and public figures in sharing their personal beliefs and values. In an era of heightened political correctness and cancel culture, individuals like Butker who openly express their faith risk facing backlash and condemnation. However, the support from Hawley and others demonstrates that there is still an audience for messages of faith and traditional values, even in the face of opposition from mainstream media and organizations like the NFL.
Ultimately, the defense of Butker by Sen. Hawley and others serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for freedom of speech and religious expression, even in the face of criticism and controversy. By supporting Butker’s right to share his beliefs openly, Hawley and his allies are pushing back against attempts to silence those who hold traditional values. The surge in jersey sales for Butker further underscores the support for his message, showing that there is a segment of the public who appreciates his courage in speaking out, despite the risks involved.
