The phrase “Let’s Go Brandon” originated from an incident at a NASCAR Xfinity Series race on October 2, 2021, at Talladega Superspeedway. During a televised interview with driver Brandon Brown after his victory, the crowd was audibly chanting. An NBC Sports reporter described the chant as “Let’s Go Brandon,” but many listeners perceived the chant to be “F Joe Biden.” This misinterpretation, whether intentional or not, sparked the phrase’s initial usage.
The phrase quickly gained traction as a euphemistic way to express dissent towards President Joe Biden. Its appeal stemmed from its seemingly innocuous nature, allowing individuals to voice their opposition in a manner that could be perceived as less offensive or confrontational than directly using profanity. The saying spread rapidly through social media, political rallies, and even mainstream media, becoming a recognizable symbol of political discontent. The speed and breadth of its adoption were amplified by its adaptability to various forms of expression, including memes, merchandise, and casual conversation.