Rogan, Musk, and the Manosphere Rally Behind Trump’s Re-election: "Let That Sink In"

 

In the late hours of Tuesday, it became clear that Donald Trump had won re-election, sparking enthusiasm across a new wave of public figures, often self-described as the “heterodoxy.” This group—comprised of male influencers, podcasters, and commentators—has championed itself as a bastion of “free thought” beyond the boundaries of traditional politics. Once associated with libertarianism, the heterodoxy has evolved in 2024, rallying around Trump’s hyper-masculine, anti-establishment message, drawing large support among young men.

Among those leading this charge is Joe Rogan, whose popular podcast resonates with an 81% male audience. Known for his candid conversations with guests across the political spectrum, Rogan had previously shown ambivalence toward Trump, favoring libertarian ideas and endorsing Bernie Sanders in 2020. However, in a marked shift, Rogan endorsed Trump the day before the election, crediting his pivot to recent guest Elon Musk, who had articulated a compelling case for Trump's re-election. Musk, long a polarizing figure, shared Rogan’s enthusiasm, posting a playful "let that sink in" photo in reference to his Twitter takeover, signaling his excitement about Trump’s win.

Musk’s shift to right-wing ideology has accelerated in recent years, partly fueled by pandemic frustrations and restrictions affecting his companies. Since acquiring Twitter (now rebranded as X), Musk has reinstated Trump and re-platformed other controversial voices, including conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. Musk’s approval of Trump and other divisive figures has intensified his influence among the heterodox audience, especially younger men who feel disconnected from traditional political narratives and societal expectations.

Polling data supports the significance of young men in Trump’s re-election, with men aged 18-29 voting overwhelmingly in his favor. In a climate where young men express growing dissatisfaction and skepticism toward progressive policies, Trump’s emphasis on “traditional masculinity” resonates. Studies have shown that support for Trump often correlates with belief in “hegemonic masculinity,” or the notion that men should exhibit toughness and dominance—traits often celebrated by the heterodox influencers who appeal to this demographic.

Figures like Jordan Peterson and Nico Kenn De Balinthazy (aka Sneako) further exemplify this trend. Peterson, popular for his critiques of modern liberalism and emphasis on traditional roles, has drawn young male followers eager to align with his views on “masculine identity.” Sneako, meanwhile, took to the streets of New York celebrating Trump’s victory, reveling in the contentious atmosphere he created.

While some heterodox figures like Dave Portnoy and Lex Fridman have avoided outright Trump endorsements, their critiques of liberal ideologies often echo the sentiments of Trump supporters. Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, publicly lambasted the Democrats’ campaign, decrying their perceived “moral superiority” that alienates independent voters.

Trump’s embrace of this alternative media landscape, sidelining traditional campaign efforts, has proven effective. By engaging directly with the influential voices of the heterodoxy, he has fortified his support among young men, a demographic increasingly influenced by the bro-centric podcast world. This shift signals a new era of online political influence that embraces unconventional tactics and resonates with those feeling distanced from mainstream political narratives.