Steve Doocy, a host on "Fox & Friends," made headlines recently when he donned a Philadelphia Eagles jersey after losing a Super Bowl bet to fellow Fox News personality Jesse Watters. The playful wager came to light as Doocy, a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs fan, showcased his allegiance to the Eagles in a lighthearted display of sportsmanship.
The incident coincided with a celebratory atmosphere in Philadelphia, where Eagles fans were reveling in their team’s victory. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took the opportunity during the Eagles’ victory parade to declare the Eagles as "America’s Team," a statement that sparked a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism among fans and critics alike. Shapiro’s comments during the parade drew attention, especially as he referenced the iconic Dallas Cowboys, traditionally known by that moniker.
During his speech, Shapiro expressed, "People love to hate on the Eagles. People love to hate on Philly. I think we became America’s Team in all of this. I hope Dallas hears this." However, his remarks were met with quick backlash on social media, where many pointed out the Eagles’ lack of a Super Bowl win for three decades, questioning the validity of his claim.
Critics were quick to note that the Eagles share their state with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team with a more storied history in the NFL, including six Super Bowl victories compared to the Eagles’ two. This fact led some to argue that the Eagles cannot claim to be Pennsylvania’s team, let alone America’s.
As the parade continued, Shapiro and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker faced jeers from the crowd, with attendees chanting for them to "wrap it up" as they took their turns at the podium. Many fans expressed that the speeches were unnecessary, suggesting that a simple "Go Birds" would have sufficed.
The governor’s comments and the subsequent reactions highlight the passionate nature of sports fandom, particularly in Philadelphia, where the Eagles have a dedicated following. The playful exchange between Doocy and Watters, set against the backdrop of the Eagles’ triumph, encapsulates the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines sports culture.
In the meantime, Shapiro is also navigating political challenges, having recently sued the Trump administration to unfreeze federal funds critical for various state projects. He stated that the administration’s decision jeopardizes essential initiatives, including environmental restoration and public health improvements. Shapiro’s legal actions have drawn attention amid ongoing tensions between state and federal governance.
As the Eagles celebrate their Super Bowl victory, the interplay of sports and politics continues to unfold, showcasing the multifaceted nature of public life in Pennsylvania.