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Hour 3 features Sydney Sweeney candidly addressing the backlash over her American Eagle jeans advertisement that sparked nationwide debate for its “genes” and “jeans” wordplay. Despite severe criticism accusing the ad of promoting eugenics, Sweeney reveals in a new GQ interview that the controversy didn’t affect her much as she was busy filming and largely unplugged from social media. The segment highlights former President Donald Trump’s public endorsement of Sweeney’s campaign, calling it the “hottest ad ever,” and Vice President JD Vance’s vocal support, both of which added fuel to the political fire. Sweeney reflects on the “surreal” experience of having high-profile conservative figures rally behind her. This hour also touches on the cultural clash stirred by the ad and how it played into broader conversations about identity, politics, and media narratives. Links to key interviews and commentary provide listeners a comprehensive view into the episode’s cultural and political significance.

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