President Donald Trump was met with a chorus of boos during a historic appearance at Sunday’s NFL game between the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions.
The reaction, which included a mix of cheers but was reportedly dominated by loud boos, erupted when Trump was shown on the stadium’s big screen late in the first half and again when he was formally introduced at halftime. Trump’s attendance marked the first time a sitting U.S. President has attended a regular-season NFL game in nearly half a century (since Jimmy Carter in 1978).
Key Moments from the Visit
- Halftime Ceremony: During the break, while the crowd noise continued, Trump participated in an enlistment ceremony for new military recruits, reading the oath of service.
- The Trump Dance: Earlier, Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown celebrated a touchdown by mimicking the “Trump dance.”
- Broadcast Interview: Trump joined Fox Sports commentators in the third quarter for an eight-minute, on-air conversation, where he briefly mentioned his high school football days playing tight end.
- Stadium Project Interest: Trump’s visit came amid reports he is interested in having the Commanders’ new, nearly $4 billion stadium project bear his name. He confirmed his involvement, saying, “That’s what I’m involved in; we’re getting all the approvals.”
- Guests: The President watched the game from a private suite alongside House Speaker Mike Johnson and other officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Education Secretary Linda McMahon.
Trump left the stadium before the game concluded.
