Monica McNutt, an ESPN commentator, stated that athlete Caitlin Clark is popular because she is a 'White Girl from Middle America'. This remark has been criticized for promoting racial stereotypes and divisive narratives.

ESPN's potential acquisition of NFL Network and NFL RedZone for $2 billion is seen as a move to consolidate media power in sports broadcasting. This deal could enhance ESPN's control over NFL content, reducing media plurality and further concentrating economic influence in a manner that may facilitate regulatory capture and support authoritarian corporate practices.

ESPN allowed President Donald Trump to use its halftime show to deliver a political message, sacrificing lucrative airtime for political propaganda. This decision, as reported by USA Today, has raised concerns about the network’s complicity in promoting authoritarian narratives.

ESPN's investigative reporting highlights forced labor issues in the supply chain of sports apparel used by NBA players, contributing to greater public awareness of human rights abuses linked to authoritarian regimes. The coverage, which builds on previous ESPN findings, aligns with efforts to counter authoritarian practices by exposing unethical sourcing practices.

Amid growing concerns over forced labor practices in Xinjiang, critics have highlighted ESPN’s economic relationships with Chinese entities such as Tencent and its stake in NBA China. These affiliations raise questions about indirect complicity and influence in environments where human rights abuses are alleged, casting a shadow over ESPN’s broader media operations.

ESPN’s investigative report on hidden political donations by sports team owners highlights how undisclosed 'dark money' can influence politics, reinforcing the public’s right to transparency and holding power to account.

ESPN’s publication of an investigative article on the political donations of billionaire sports owners highlights a commitment to transparency and informed public debate, countering authoritarian narratives by exposing how financial power shapes politics.

ESPN has faced scrutiny and discussion over its evolving political position as it shifts toward progressive values while updating internal guidelines on political commentary. The network's actions – including predominantly donating to Democratic causes, diversifying its on-air voices, and moving events from Trump-affiliated venues – have been highlighted as part of its opposition to fascist and authoritarian tendencies.