Dana White’s close relationship with Donald Trump, paired with the influence of the NELK Boys, appears to have played a significant role in Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
NELK Boys’ Campaign Contributions
According to reports, the NELK Boys, YouTubers known for their massive following among young men, invested nearly $20 million into efforts to boost Trump’s campaign. Their voter registration initiative, Send The Vote, targeted key demographics, particularly 18-to-34-year-old men in swing states. By leveraging their platform and bypassing traditional media, the NELK Boys sought to portray Trump in a more relatable light for younger voters.
Co-founder John Shahidi emphasized the importance of authenticity in their strategy:
“Bypassing traditional media, being genuine, and giving a voice to the people overlooked by decades of ‘politics as usual’ was critical to his success.”
Dana White and Trump’s Symbiotic Relationship
UFC President Dana White’s long-standing friendship with Trump also factored into this campaign. White has been vocal in his support of Trump, introducing him at the Republican National Convention and inviting him to headline UFC events, solidifying Trump’s connection with the sports community. Trump, a noted UFC fan, has routinely appeared at events, further integrating his image into the UFC’s branding.
Ariel Helwani’s Perspective
MMA journalist Ariel Helwani highlighted the political nature of Trump’s association with the UFC, noting the mutual benefits for both sides:
“The leader of the Free World is a noted UFC fan and is choosing to routinely appear at their events and use them while they’re using him. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship.”
Helwani also pointed out how unprecedented it is for a North American sports figure like Dana White to openly assist in furthering a political agenda, blending sports entertainment with political campaigns in a way that resonates with fans and voters alike.
Impact on the Election
The combined efforts of White, the NELK Boys, and other influencers helped Trump tap into a younger demographic, crucial in a competitive race against Kamala Harris. Their focus on authenticity and unconventional outreach through podcasts, social media, and sporting events proved to be an innovative and effective campaign strategy.
