The pre-Super Bowl interview with the U.S. President has long been a cherished tradition, but it appears to be fading away. President Joe Biden has declined to participate in an interview before the broadcast of Super Bowl LVIII on February 11, according to CBS News. This marks the second consecutive year that President Biden has opted out of the conversation, which typically draws a massive audience. Even Fox News Channel was unable to secure an interview with him last year.
The absence of the President’s commentary on topics such as the recent U.S. strikes on Iranian forces, his thoughts on the Republican candidates, or his preferred Super Bowl team may raise eyebrows, especially as the 2024 presidential election approaches. However, this decision may not come as a complete surprise, as President Biden has been sparing with press interviews during his time in office.
While President Biden’s refusal to participate in this event may be disappointing for some, it does not necessarily indicate strained relations between the White House and CBS News. President Biden has previously engaged with CBS News correspondents Norah O’Donnell and Scott Pelley, and he recently had a brief exchange with Robert Costa. On the other hand, past Presidents have chosen not to engage in the Super Bowl interview tradition, with former President Trump declining a sit-down with NBC News in 2018.
The Super Bowl interview has always been highly sought after due to its potential to generate headlines and dominate news coverage for days. However, conducting such an interview during the Super Bowl pre-show can be challenging, as the public’s focus is primarily on the game rather than politics. Finding the right balance between staying within the context of the day and asking important questions is a delicate task, as NBC’s Savannah Guthrie attested to in her interview with President Obama in 2015.
Although President Biden’s decision to decline the Super Bowl interview holds significance, viewers can still enjoy the game itself, and F5 Magazine will continue to deliver the latest news and insights.