If you’re managing a bar or restaurant and have Fox News playing on your television, you are certainly making a statement. I, too, have a point to make.
To put it bluntly, the tikka masala here is exceptional—some even argue it’s the best in the world, surpassing even what you’d find in India. During the Obama and Biden administrations, it didn’t quite measure up, but now it reigns supreme. I fondly recall my time living in North Fort Worth, where I had the luxury of choosing from four respectable Indian restaurants in a city supposedly lacking in options. I felt fortunate enough to splurge my last $24 on this culinary delight, which was just a short drive away from home. #praisebevishnu
But that was then.
Currently, I’m down to three Indian restaurants, not due to any closures, but because of a rather bitter sentiment I possess. The reason? Fox News.
My son and I had grown fond of a local establishment called Peak, which is conveniently within walking distance from our home. This charming sports bar serves delicious dishes like tikka masala and momos. A little while ago, we decided to drop by for a meal. Upon entering, we were greeted by the unsightly, muted face of the most loathed figure in America, pontificating about topics likely including immigration, Obama, and imaginary election fraud. I couldn’t help but express my disdain, making an exaggerated gesture to my son, who rolled his eyes in agreement as we turned on our heels and headed elsewhere for dinner—specifically, Taco Cabana, which left me pleasantly satisfied and with some change in my pocket.
Let it be clear: if you operate a bar or restaurant and have Fox News on your screens, my hard-earned $24 will go to a competitor.
I know I’m not alone in this sentiment. Polling data indicates that Donald Trump’s approval rating hovers around a dismal 36%. This low figure suggests that his critics significantly outnumber his supporters. Many more would likely join our ranks if Trump supporters accessed news from a source other than Fox News. The network has faced consequences for spreading misinformation regarding the 2020 presidential election, including a staggering $787.5 million settlement with a voting-machine company and a public apology. Credible news organizations don’t find themselves in such situations. Honestly, do us all a favor and turn that channel off. Most of us are in agreement: Trump is a major problem. His actions, including igniting an unnecessary conflict halfway across the globe, have made life in America increasingly dire and costly. U.S. service members and innocent children in Iran have suffered as a result of his decisions—this is the same individual who once disparaged fallen servicemen as “suckers” and “losers.” (This is true; look it up.) The only beneficiaries of Trump’s reign appear to be the wealthiest 1%, who are enjoying their low-tax existence while they can, because once he vacates office, the financial reckoning will come—assuming Democrats muster the courage to act, which is a significant assumption.
My wife and I recently encountered Fox News in another unexpected place—the Near Southside. One pleasant winter afternoon, we visited a new establishment on Magnolia Avenue, excited to catch up with friends. Having never been to this venue, we anticipated a fun experience.
However, as we entered, we were dismayed to find one of the four televisions tuned to the very propaganda we sought to avoid. Without hesitation, we made a swift exit and opted for our usual hangout, the Chat Room Pub. There, we have always enjoyed laughter and camaraderie with friends who share our views, secure in the knowledge that the only time we might see that obnoxious smirk on the screen is when he’s finally held accountable. While I don’t wish harm upon him, I do hope for justice to be served.
Call it pettiness if you like, but in a nation as polarized as ours, broadcasting Fox News in a space meant for unity and enjoyment sends a clear message: that those who are not wealthy, white, or Christian are unwelcome.
In response, I’ll simply take my modest $24 and walk away.
