Staff Reports
In a playful twist on March Madness, the Ruthless Variety Program has once again launched its annual “Hack Madness” tournament, a satirical bracket pitting 64 of the most prominent liberal journalists against each other to determine who earns the dubious title of “biggest hack.” Now in its fifth year, this event has become a favorite among conservative audiences, offering a humorous critique of media bias and sensationalism. With top seeds like Nicole Wallace, Eugene Daniels, Norah O’Donnell, and Margaret Brennan leading the charge, Hack Madness 2025 promises fierce competition and biting commentary.
The tournament’s structure mirrors that of NCAA basketball brackets, featuring divisions such as Liberal Activist, Way Too Online, Fake News, and Establishment. Participants are seeded based on factors like perceived bias, visibility in the media, and their ability to stir controversy. Voting occurs online via Twitter polls hosted by Comfortably Smug, allowing the public to decide who advances through each round. The lighthearted yet pointed nature of this exercise underscores frustrations with what many conservatives see as unchecked liberal narratives dominating mainstream journalism.
This year’s lineup reflects the aftermath of a contentious 2024 election cycle that saw media figures ramping up partisan rhetoric. CBS has emerged as a dominant force in the competition, with two of its journalists securing top seeds. Margaret Brennan’s rise in particular highlights her role in shaping political discourse through her reporting style. While Hack Madness pokes fun at these media personalities, it also serves as a broader critique of how journalistic integrity is perceived in polarized times.
Interestingly, print journalists have seen less representation in recent years compared to their television counterparts. While their investigative work often carries significant impact, they lack the visual presence and daily exposure that TV personalities enjoy. This dynamic raises questions about how media influence is measured and whether television’s dominance amplifies bias more effectively than print journalism.
Hack Madness is more than just entertainment—it’s a reflection of conservative frustrations with the state of media accountability. By spotlighting perceived biases and sensationalism among journalists, it invites audiences to critically examine the narratives shaping public opinion. As voting continues and the field narrows down to one ultimate “hack,” the tournament offers not just laughs but also a moment of introspection about the role of journalism in today’s political landscape.
