America’s pastime won’t abide the anti-voting fervor sweeping the nation, announcing on Friday that it is moving its annual All-Star Game from Georgia. The state recently adopted a controversial law that restricts access to the polls.
Major League Baseball commissioner Robert Manfred said in a statement, “The best way to demonstrate our values as a sport is by relocating this year’s All-Star Game and MLB Draft.”
Manfred said he had “thoughtful discussions” with teams, players, coaches, retirees, and union groups representing league employees. “Major League Baseball fundamentally supports voting rights for all Americans and opposes restrictions to the ballot box…Fair access to voting continues to have our game’s unwavering support,” the statement said.
The ‘Midsummer Classic’ had been scheduled for July 13th at Truist Park, the Cobb County home of the Atlanta Braves. No alternative location has been identified.
The Braves released a statement saying they were “disappointed by the decision” and that “businesses, employees, and fans are the victims.” The statement added that the Braves “will continue to stress the importance of equal voting opportunities.”
Earlier this week, President Joe Biden said he’d support a relocation of the fan favorite exhibition game, and the manager of the National League All-Star’s, Dave Roberts, expressed concerns about playing it in Georgia.