From Punchlines to Politics: The Joe Rogan Experience as a Case Study of the Politicization of Apolitical Spaces in the U.S.

The Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), one of the most widely consumed media products in the world, has evolved from a podcast with comedic roots to a platform of political significance. The transformation of JRE exemplifies a broader trend of politicization of traditionally apolitical spaces in the United States that may have consequential political implications. To examine this shift and its effects on political outcomes, this paper presents findings from two studies: Study 1 is a content analysis of JRE episodes aired through December 2024 (N = 2,175) that demonstrates a rise in socio-political content on the show. Study 2 draws on a nationally representative survey (N = 1,600) to assess the relationship between JRE exposure and voting behavior in the 2024 presidential election. In light of these findings, we discuss the role of non-traditional media in contemporary politics.