Former ESPN Anchors Criticize Network Over Political Bias, Contracts

Former ESPN anchors Sage Steele and Ashley Brewer Kaminsky have publicly criticized the sports network for what they describe as a double standard regarding political viewpoints and employee conduct. Steele alleged that ESPN treats conservative viewpoints as a greater offense than questionable character, referencing the network's ongoing employment of Shannon Sharpe despite a civil lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct. Brewer Kaminsky shared her own experience, stating she was reprimanded by ESPN management for posting a photo with a Republican congressman and a UFC fighter on social media, suggesting conservative employees faced stricter scrutiny. Both former anchors also mentioned being disciplined for relatively minor infractions, such as violating Covid-19 protocols by standing too close together for a photo, while noting that similar actions did not seem to draw equal attention when involving other political affiliations. Steele's lawsuit against ESPN, which was settled in 2023, centered on claims of retaliation for her political views, and Brewer Kaminsky was laid off during a mass reduction in 2023. Their accounts highlight ongoing debates about political bias and fairness in ESPN's workplace culture.