Opinion | Who Would Win Gold in the Coward Olympics?

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by Frank Bruni and Bret Stephens

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Frank Bruni and Bret Stephens engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the Olympics, politics, and cultural divides. Bruni suggests that the Olympics capture the human experience through inspiring stories and emotions, while Stephens reflects on how everything has become political, including entertainment events like the Super Bowl halftime show. Their discussion highlights the polarization in American discourse, with both sides reacting predictably to cultural moments. They also touch on Zohran Mamdani's proposal for a property tax increase in New York City as part of budget negotiations with Governor Kathy Hochul. The conversation underscores the broader trend of politics infiltrating even the most unassuming aspects of life, such as sports and entertainment. Stephens points out that while Trump bears responsibility for this shift, it’s also exacerbated by critics who constantly respond to his provocations, creating a cycle of division. Bruni adds that both sides—Trump supporters and political left—are guilty of overreacting to cultural events, reflecting the fractured state of American discourse. The discussion also touches on how New York City's new mayor is using political leverage to push for budget changes, highlighting the interconnectedness of politics and public policy in everyday life. This exchange paints a picture of a society where even non-political moments become battlegrounds for ideological conflict. The conversation ultimately serves as a reminder of how deeply political divides have penetrated American culture. This matters because it speaks to the broader challenges of polarization and division in modern society. Readers interested in news will find value in understanding how these dynamics play out in everyday life, from entertainment to governance. By highlighting these issues, the article encourages readers to reflect on the state of American discourse and its impact on cultural and political institutions.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026