In a time that has since gone viral for all the bad reasons, CBS’s Tony Dokoupil made a slang-laden statement while presenting a live broadcast of the 2025 catholic conference. Dokoupil claimed that the Church leaders were “raw-dogging it,” which sparked a flurry of criticism and second-hand embarrassment on social media while discussing the cardinal-electors ‘ isolation inside the Sistine Chapel. Although the term “raw-dogging” has a number of unofficial uses, it is frequently used to refer to physical activity carried out without protection. Many people were shocked and others were merely perplexed by Dokoupil’s use of the phrase in relation to the spiritual decision-making process for the Roman Catholic Church’s new head.
A Papal Process Following History
The conclave, which derives from the Latin cum qualities, which means” with a crucial,” is the epoch’s long tradition of electing the next pope. 133 cardinal-electors were called to the Vatican to take part in the mysterious process after Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025.
Sindoor Procedure
No outdoor conversation, no internet entry, and no mobile phones are prohibited. The intention is to promote divine ideas rather than political dissent or outside influence. Experienced Vatican journalist John Allen explained that the cardinal were completely disconnected from the outside world during this discussion on CBS Mornings. No phone, no text, not nothing, they were “raw-dogging the conclave,” Dokoupil remarked. Before continuing the section with shivering laugh, co-hosts Gayle King and Nate Burleson appeared immediately stunned. The conference and this word” Do Not Go Together” received immediate backlash. Viewers ‘ posts on social media platforms exploded with everything from astonishment to anger. Some reviewers characterized it as incorrect, rude, or tone-deaf, especially given the seriousness of the event being covered. One person wrote on X ( previously Twitter ) that” this word and the conference do not go together.” Another user wrote,” Just had to explain to my Catholic mother what “raw-dogging” methods. Thank you, CBS. The term, which is occasionally used in internet parlance to describe enduring something without assistance or support ( such as “raw-dogging reality” or “raw-dogging a Monday without coffee ), still has a sexually explicit sense in most situations. Its unexpected inclusion in a proper news program about a holy religious ritual jarred some. Some Dokoupil supporters speculated that the anchor was trying to use contemporary jargon to entice younger people or add humor to a protracted spread. However, critics made the case that there is a time and place for humour, and that an ecclesiastical election method that dates back a long time is unlikely to be one.
A Pattern of Unexpected Events?
Tony Dokoupil has previously drawn criticism for his eccentric on-air behavior. He and British actor Jason Isaacs had a heated conversation about the Israel-Gaza fight in a 2023 meeting. He received criticism earlier this year for a television program featuring past NFL coach Bill Belichick, which some people found to be excessively conflicting. CBS has not yet offered a proper explanation or statement regarding the situation. But, domestic sources claim that the system is “reviewing viewer feedback.” The video is still popular online as of Thursday night, having received millions of views on X, TikTok, and YouTube, with the majority of people expressing disapprovals of the video’s validity.
The Width of Thoughts in a Time of Virtuosity
The incident highlights the difficulties that traditional media outlets face as they try to tunnel racial and cultural divides. Today’s anchors are expected to be both reliable and relevant, as well as entertaining and conversational. The line act between formality and gravitas frequently prompts situations where things can go horribly wrong. One user wrote,” This is what happens when legacy news attempts to cosplay TikTok.” The Vatican has not commented on the affair, nor is it likely to, adding,” If you haven’t state it in a church, even don’t say it during protection of the conclave.” The Holy See has a tendency to be silent about mishaps in Western media, especially those that occur outside of Catholic lines. However, there has been a wide range of reactions from crime to bemusement among Catholics and those who are familiar with the significance of the catholic vote.
The Conclave Continues
While the conference itself adheres strictly to history, it is still going on. Under Michelangelo’s chapel ceiling, cardinals from all over the globe are secluded inside the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace and voting secretly in. White smoking may appear from the Sistine Chapel stove when Pope Francis is chosen, indicating to the world that he will succeed him. In the meantime, reporters covering the event may be wise to carefully select their thoughts. Even the most experienced anchors may have to regret using current idioms in one of the most sacred and time-honoured processes in theological history, even if they may seem clever or relatable in different contexts.
