5 Questions People Are Asking About Trump’s NFL Visit

1. Why was Donald Trump’s appearance at an NFL game significant?

Trump’s attendance marked the first time in nearly half a century that a sitting U.S. president appeared at a regular-season NFL game — the last being Jimmy Carter in 1978. Presidential visits to such events are rare, especially given the NFL’s fraught history with Trump over anthem protests during his first term. His appearance symbolized both a personal return to a stage of past controversy and an attempt to connect with one of America’s most watched cultural institutions.

2. Why did Donald Trump get booed at the game?

Many spectators at FedEx Field booed when Trump appeared on the stadium screen and was introduced over the loudspeaker. The reaction reflected the country’s deep political divisions — with some fans viewing the moment as political intrusion into sports. The boos continued as he led a military enlistment ceremony, underscoring the polarized public response that often follows his high-profile appearances.

3. Who accompanied Trump at the game?

Trump was joined in his stadium suite by House Speaker Mike Johnson, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Education Secretary Linda McMahon, and Senator Steve Daines of Montana. Their presence underscored the blend of politics and ceremony surrounding the event. The group also watched an on-field military oath ceremony alongside Commanders owner Josh Harris.

4. What did Trump say during the event?

Before entering the stadium, Trump told reporters the “country’s doing well” and urged Democrats to “open it up,” referring to the ongoing government shutdown. During a Fox Sports broadcast segment, he reminisced about playing high school football and called sports “a microcosm of life — the good, the bad and the ugly.” He also commented on Washington’s stadium project, saying he was “involved” in helping with approvals.

5. How did players and coaches respond to Trump’s visit?

Reactions from the field were largely lighthearted. Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown mimicked the “Trump dance” after a touchdown, saying he wanted to “have some fun” since the president was attending. Coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff called the visit “a big deal” and “awesome,” though both said they were mostly focused on the game itself.