Two years ago, Harrison Butker encouraged female graduates to value motherhood. This week, Cam Newton claimed women lose value every time they give birth. Yet only Butker's comments drew widespread outrage.
During a commencement speech at Benedictine College in May 2024, Butker said, "Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world."
He continued, "I'm beyond blessed with the many talents God has given me, but it cannot be overstated that all my success is made possible because a girl I met in band class back in middle school would convert to the faith, become my wife, and embrace one of the most important titles of all, homemaker."
On a podcast, Newton said, "A woman's value gets lowered the more children that they have."
"I was having this conversation with one of the mothers of my children and she's still fine. I was telling her, 'The guy that you're dating or will date, if he ain't willing to love on these five children that you have, he ain't the guy for you,'" he added.
For context, Butker has three children with his wife. Newton has nine children, five with one woman and the rest with others.
NFL placekicker Harrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs. (Credit: Getty Images)
The distinction is obvious. Butker praised his wife and other mothers. He disparaged no one. Newton disparaged women with multiple children. He praised no one.
Yet it was Butker whom the usual media voices turned into a villain.
"The Chiefs kicker is lucky @gmfb is on hiatus. I would be asking for a few minutes tomorrow to let off some steam," NFL Network host Jamie Erdahl tweeted. "And then I would return home to my rightful place with my children and husband."
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