MLB has moved this year’s All-Star Game out of Atlanta following controversy generated by Georgia’s restrictive new voting law.
“Over the last week, we have engaged in thoughtful conversations with Clubs, former and current players, the Players Association, and The Players Alliance, among others, to listen to their views,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “I have decided that the best way to demonstrate our values as a sport is by relocating this year’s All-Star Game and MLB Draft.”
Manfred said the new host city and details about events will be announced “shortly.”
The new law, passed by the Georgia House and Senate and then signed by Gov. Brian Kemp on March 25, has generated controversy due to several limits it puts on voting in the state. The bill was passed along party lines, with Republicans vocally supporting it and Democrats calling it voter suppression.
President Joe Biden has condemned the new law and voiced support for moving the All-Star Game out of Atlanta in an interview with ESPN.
“I think today’s professional athletes are acting incredibly responsibly,” Biden said. “I would strong support them doing that. People look to them. They’re leaders.”
The Atlanta Braves released a statement saying the team was “deeply disappointed” by MLB’s decision to move the game.
“The Braves organization will continue to stress the importance of equal voting opportunities and we had hoped our city could use this event as a platform to enhance the discussion,” the statement reads. “…Unfortunately, businesses, employees and fans in Georgia are the victims of this decision.”
Source-ABC
