Brad Polumbo is an American libertarian-conservative journalist, commentator, and podcaster known for his unique perspective as an openly gay conservative. He co-founded BASEDPolitics in 2022 with fellow libertarian Hannah Cox, with the aim of promoting free-market capitalism, limited government, and individual liberty through accessible media content.
Polumbo has contributed op-eds to various prominent publications, including USA Today, National Review, Newsweek, and The Daily Beast. He has also appeared on major media platforms such as Fox News, Fox Business, Sky News, and even Dr. Phil. In addition to his writing and media appearances, he hosts the “Brad vs Everyone” podcast, where he discusses current events, viral stories, and trending topics from a center-right perspective.
Before his work as a journalist, Polumbo was deeply involved in policy work. From 2020 to 2022, he served as a policy correspondent and editor at the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE). During this time, he testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, providing insights on the mental health effects of lockdowns and social isolation, particularly on school-aged children during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Early Life and Family Background
Bradley Andrew Polumbo was born on November 12, 1997, in Rhode Island, United States. Raised in a politically moderate household, he developed an early interest in political discourse and public policy. At the age of 13, following his parents’ divorce, Polumbo moved in with his father. However, by 2020, he reported having a strained relationship with his father and stepmother due to past abuse, leading to a period of estrangement. Despite these challenges, he maintains a close relationship with his mother and sister, who have been supportive throughout his personal and professional journey.
Education and Academic Pursuits
Polumbo attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he pursued a double major in economics and political science. Graduating in 2019, he distinguished himself as the only conservative editor at the university’s student-run newspaper, The Massachusetts Daily Collegian. His tenure at the newspaper was marked by his willingness to express contrarian viewpoints, which often sparked campus debates and controversies. This experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors in journalism and public commentary.
Career Trajectory
Early Career and Media Contributions
After college, Polumbo’s writing began to gain national attention, with his op-eds appearing in major publications such as USA Today, National Review, Newsweek, and The Daily Beast. His insightful analyses on economic policies, civil liberties, and social issues resonated with a broad audience, establishing him as a credible voice in political journalism.
Foundation for Economic Education (FEE)
From 2020 to 2022, Polumbo served as a policy correspondent and editor at the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting libertarian principles. During his tenure, he testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, discussing the mental health effects of lockdowns and social isolation on school-aged children during the COVID-19 pandemic. His work at FEE further solidified his reputation as a thoughtful and articulate advocate for individual rights and limited government.
Co-founding BASEDPolitics
In 2022, Polumbo co-founded BASEDPolitics with fellow libertarian Hannah Cox. The platform aims to provide a fresh perspective on political discourse, challenging prevailing narratives and promoting free-market solutions to societal issues. Through BASEDPolitics, Polumbo hosts the “Brad vs Everyone” podcast, where he engages in candid discussions on current events, internet trends, and viral stories from a center-right perspective.
Media Appearances and Public Speaking
Polumbo’s media presence extends beyond written articles and podcasts. He has appeared on prominent platforms such as Fox News, Fox Business, Sky News, and Dr. Phil, where he discusses a range of topics, including economic policies, civil liberties, and LGBTQ+ issues. His ability to articulate complex ideas in an accessible manner has made him a sought-after commentator in the media landscape.
Views on LGBTQ+ Issues
As an openly gay conservative, Polumbo holds nuanced views on LGBTQ+ issues. He supports gay marriage and the rights of homosexual couples to adopt children. However, he has expressed opposition to gender-affirming treatments for minors, arguing that such interventions should be approached with caution. Polumbo has been critical of certain aspects of the modern LGBTQ+ movement, particularly what he perceives as overreach and politicization by some activists.
Personal Life and Relationships
Polumbo currently resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with his boyfriend and their dog, Reggie. He has been open about his personal life, sharing aspects of his relationship and daily experiences with his audience. Despite facing criticism and backlash from some quarters due to his political views and sexual orientation, Polumbo remains steadfast in his commitment to advocating for individual liberty and free expression.
Social Media Presence
Polumbo maintains an active presence on social media platforms, where he engages with his audience and shares his perspectives on various issues. His Twitter handle is @brad_polumbo, where he posts commentary on current events, political developments, and cultural trends. Through his online platforms, Polumbo fosters a community of like-minded individuals interested in thoughtful political discourse.
Net Worth
While specific figures regarding Polumbo’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his multifaceted career—spanning journalism, podcasting, and public speaking—suggests a stable and growing financial standing. His entrepreneurial ventures, such as co-founding BASEDPolitics, further contribute to his financial portfolio.
Conclusion
Brad Polumbo’s journey from a college student with a passion for political discourse to a prominent libertarian-conservative voice in American media is a testament to his dedication and intellectual rigor. Through his writings, podcasts, and media appearances, he continues to challenge prevailing narratives and advocate for principles that promote individual freedom and limited government. As he navigates the complexities of modern political discourse, Polumbo remains a significant figure in shaping the future of conservative thought.
FAQs
Who is Brad Polumbo?
Brad Polumbo is an American libertarian-conservative journalist, commentator, and podcaster known for his advocacy of free-market capitalism, limited government, and individual liberty.
What is BASEDPolitics?
BASEDPolitics is a media platform co-founded by Brad Polumbo and Hannah Cox in 2022, aiming to provide a fresh perspective on political discourse from a libertarian viewpoint.
Where did Brad Polumbo attend college?
Polumbo attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science in 2019.
Has Brad Polumbo appeared on television?
Yes, Polumbo has appeared on platforms such as Fox News, Fox Business, Sky News, and Dr. Phil, discussing various political and social issues.
What are Polumbo’s views on LGBTQ+ issues?
Polumbo supports gay marriage and the rights of homosexual couples to adopt children but has expressed opposition to gender-affirming treatments for minors.
Where does Brad Polumbo live?
Polumbo currently resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with his boyfriend and their dog, Reggie.
What is the “Brad vs Everyone” podcast?
The “Brad vs Everyone” podcast is hosted by Brad Polumbo, where he engages in discussions on current events, internet trends, and viral stories from a center-right perspective.
What organizations has Polumbo worked for?
Polumbo has worked for the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE) and is an opinion contributor for The Washington Examiner.
