Mulkey has maintained a close and supportive relationship with Louisiana's Republican Governor Jeff Landry, a staunch Trump ally. Landry has frequently praised Mulkey as a symbol of Louisiana's values and toughness.
Notes: Landry used the LSU anthem controversy to push for mandatory anthem attendance policies.
Agent rationale
Alignment with high-profile MAGA-aligned governors like Landry suggests a shared political and cultural ecosystem.
Mulkey has frequently attacked mainstream sports media, specifically the Los Angeles Times and Washington Post, characterizing their reporting as 'sexist' and 'hit pieces.' Her rhetoric often mirrors MAGA-style critiques of the 'liberal media' and 'fake news.'
Notes: She threatened legal action against the Washington Post before an article was even published.
Agent rationale
The use of aggressive, preemptive rhetoric against major media institutions is a hallmark of the MAGA communication style.
Sources
- CNN (Mar 23, 2024)
When asked for comment on the detention of her former player Brittney Griner in Russia, Mulkey replied, 'and you won't,' refusing to offer support or public advocacy. This was widely interpreted as a reflection of her past friction with Griner over Griner's identity and social justice stances.
Notes: Griner had previously claimed Mulkey instructed players not to be open about their sexuality at Baylor.
Agent rationale
While not a direct political endorsement, her refusal to support a high-profile figure associated with social justice and LGBTQ+ advocacy aligns with the cultural friction points often cited by the MAGA movement.
Sources
- ESPN (Sep 26, 2022)
During the 2021 NCAA Tournament, Mulkey publicly called for the NCAA to 'dump the COVID testing' for the Final Four teams, arguing that the players should just play. This stance aligned with MAGA-aligned skepticism toward strict pandemic mandates and protocols.
Notes: The comments drew significant criticism from public health officials but were praised by conservative commentators.
Agent rationale
Her public opposition to COVID-19 safety protocols mirrors a core MAGA policy grievance regarding government and institutional overreach during the pandemic.
Following Baylor's 2019 national championship, Mulkey led her team to the White House and praised President Donald Trump, stating, 'It's an honor to be here... we're just proud to be here.' She presented Trump with a jersey and engaged in a highly publicized, friendly exchange with the President.
Notes: This visit occurred during a period when many championship teams were declining White House invitations for political reasons.
Agent rationale
Mulkey's enthusiastic participation and public praise for Trump during a time of high athletic boycotts is a strong signal of alignment with the administration's cultural standing.