Danica Patrick took over the spotlight for most of 2023, albeit for the wrong reasons. The former IndyCar and NASCAR driver faced a lot of criticism for her seemingly unpopular opinions and actions. But as the new year ushers in, the former racer is yet again grabbing headlines as she recently announced her political aspirations.

Danica Patrick has always been open to expressing her political opinions and stances on various societal issues. However, the same attribute has often landed her in a spot of bother and backlash. After declaring her interest in politics through an Instagram post where she was seen with famous TV host and political commentator, Tucker Carlson, Danica revealed her thoughts about taking the side of the ‘truth.’

A surprising statement from Danica Patrick

During the 2016 presidential elections, Danica Patrick was asked about her opinion on the political scenario in the United States. She had refused to participate in any political discussions and preferred to avoid it. But recently, she has diverted from her stance and nosedived right into the thick of it.

A few weeks ago, her appearance at the conservative organization Turning Point USA’s AMFest sparked controversy within the racing community. As she continued her foray into politics, she met a conservative political commentator and former host of ‘Tucker Carlson Tonight’, Tucker Carlson. Her latest Instagram post depicted the same, as she wrote, “At just like that…. I’m into politics.”

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Citing the reasons for her staying away from politics for a long time, Danica Patrick stated, “I have steered clear of it because as an athlete and having sponsors, it was never my place or interest, to be honest. But after talking to Tucker today it became more clear why I am interested.“

She added: “People should be able to live their lives however they want to, in my opinion, as long as it’s not hurting anyone else. However, that’s the problem now. Whether it’s our food, skies, schools, free speech, media, or privacy… it is affecting my world and just about everyone else’s on a daily basis. I want to learn more about what causes the issues we face and ask how we can solve them. The only side I am taking is truth. What do you guys want to know more about?! It’s time to get interviewing!”

The declaration invited a wide range of comments from the fanbase. While some supported her views, many dismissed her claims by equating her thought process to Tucker Carlson’s. Danica Patrick controversially ended 2023 and, not so surprisingly, has started 2024 in a similar fashion.

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2023 was marred with controversies for Patrick

Sky Sports confirmed its 2024 Formula 1 presenting team on Wednesday. Only a few people had expected Danica Patrick to return as an analyst to the panel following her disputable words in the previous year. The backlash started with Patrick stating that racing was rightfully a male-dominated sport as motorsports is not “normal” for a female mind.

“You have to, you know, handle the car – not only just the car because that’s skill, but the mindset that it takes to be really good is something that’s not normal in a feminine mind, a female mind,” stated Danica Patrick. These comments invited critics worldwide as it looked like female drivers were being downplayed, in her words.

Later in the year, she was criticized by the Formula 1 community for her comments on the fan-favorite Daniel Ricciardo. The AlphaTauri driver’s 2023 was filled with injuries, and the 34-year-old couldn’t live up to the expectations. Danica Patrick claimed that Ricciardo was nearing the twilight of his career, which didn’t go down well with the fans who took to social media to slam her.

Her appearance at the Turning Point event in December further worsened the situation. Several of her fans threatened to unfollow her for being a Donald Trump supporter.

Now with her recent announcement about venturing into politics, it remains to be seen how the community will react. Considering how her reputation has taken a hit recently, the recurring pattern could be the case again.

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