Is DC really the 'worst sports town in America'?

WASHINGTON — In case you didn't know, it's an election year. As such, statistician Nate Silver is getting a lot of attention in the lead up to November. Founder of FiveThirtyEight, Silver has built a reputation on forecasting election results. But, a recent post on X about another aspect of D.C. life is getting attention on the platform.

On Sunday, Silver posted about sports in the District with a dramatic conclusion that had Mayor Muriel Bowser bashing him for misinformation.

"Why are DC sports franchises so weird? Wizards/Commanders/Nationals/Capitals all of these brands are punching below their weight except maybe the Caps," Silver wrote. "If DC had cool sports teams it would be a radically improved city. It's the worst sports town in America."

Some users agreed with Silver's take, blaming the transient nature of D.C. for it being considered a bad sports town.

But, since posting the controversial opinion, many have come to the District's defense, especially with the Commanders on an upswing this season. 

Mayor Bowser, who has been pushing the idea of D.C. as a sports capital, accused Silver of spreading misinformation. 

The Capitals won the Stanley Cup in 2018. The Nationals won the World Series in 2019. Meanwhile, the Spirit won the NWLS Championship in 2021 and made the playoffs in 2024.

Others also pointed to these facts in response to Silver. "L take. Nats won the World Series in 2019. My Twins haven't won since '91," one X user said. 

"I thought you were a data guy, Nate," another user quipped. 

The Washington Spirit also weighed in.

What do you think of Silver's take? Does he have a point?