Longtime ESPN analyst Mina Kimes is known not just for her sharp NFL takes but also for being one of the network’s more politically vocal personalities. On Wednesday, Kimes found herself in the middle of controversy — not for her sports commentary, but for calling out how media outlets have been covering the ongoing ICE-related riots in Los Angeles.
In a pointed statement, Kimes suggested that the chaos being shown across screens and social media may not be what it seems.
“The disparity between what’s actually happening in Los Angeles and the way it’s being mischaracterized is one of the biggest stress tests of modern media in recent memory,” Kimes said. “Botted socials, AI, old clips, declining literacy—it’s like seeing a broken emergency response system hit by a storm.”
Her comments stirred up immediate backlash — none louder than Jason Whitlock, the conservative sports podcaster and critic of left-leaning media figures. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Whitlock didn’t hold back.
“We experienced 10+ years of media pretending police officers were killing thousands of unarmed black men every year. LeBron couldn’t even go outside. Mina never said a word. Make it make sense,” he wrote.
As of Tuesday, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed that 197 individuals had been arrested in relation to the ICE-related riots. The city has since implemented an 8 p.m. curfew to try and control the unrest.
Where Does Mina Kimes Stand Politically?
Kimes has never shied away from political commentary, especially on issues involving civil rights and social justice. Back in 2022, she publicly endorsed LA Mayor Karen Bass through her Instagram stories:
“Enjoyed hearing from (Bass) yesterday… Ballots are out now: Use your voice and vote!”
Earlier this year, Kimes also used her platform on ESPN’s Around the Horn to slam the Trump administration for removing an article on Jackie Robinson’s military service from the Pentagon’s website. The article was eventually restored.
“That history cannot be erased, it cannot be undone, and it must be recognized to fully understand and celebrate [Robinson’s] legacy,” Kimes said on air.
While ESPN traditionally discourages overt political stances, Kimes remains one of the few voices at the network willing to speak out — even when it sparks debate.
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