Fox Nation, Fox News’ online streaming platform, is hosting “Patriot Awards 2021” in Florida on November 17 with strict COVID-19 vaccine/testing requirements for entry. At this event, all attendees must show either a vaccine card or a negative COVID-19 test taken prior to the event.
These rules follow commonsense public health directives, mirroring Fox’s own vaccine passport system (and similar protocols for Fox Corporation shareholders). The venue holding the Patriot Awards, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, which is owned by Seminole Gaming, does not have any vaccine or testing requirements in place. Even while Fox News pundits publicly decry COVID vaccine mandates as government overreach, their office and events are protected.
Fox News has repeatedly praised Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis throughout the pandemic for being tough on health regulations and mandates. It has also been revealed that Fox News and the Florida governor have coordinated broadly on coverage to build up his presidential star power.
Many of those listed as “special guests” at the Patriot Award event have spoken out against vaccine and testing requirements.