Trump Attends NFL Game, First Sitting President Since Carter

Detroit, MI — President Donald Trump made history on Sunday by becoming the first sitting president to attend an NFL regular-season game since Jimmy Carter in 1978. Trump was present for the matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Washington Commanders.

During the third quarter, Trump appeared on the Fox broadcast, discussing his experience as a football player at New York Military Academy. He shared insights on quarterbacks, saying, “Drew Brees, he threw a ball you could catch.” Trump’s commentary included a breakdown of a play with former NFL player and commentator Jonathan Vilma.

Trump also tried his hand at play-by-play during a play for the Commanders, noting, “Let’s see what happens. Not bad,” in reference to a three-yard run by Jacory Croskey-Merritt. When asked about his enjoyment of attending sporting events, Trump remarked that sports reflect the ups and downs of life.

However, his presence was met with mixed reactions. Fans in the stadium booed when he was shown on the video board during the first half and again when he was introduced at halftime. The president read an oath for military members during an on-field enlistment ceremony, which also faced jeers from some attendees.

Trump’s appearance comes amid ongoing discussions about the Commanders’ future home. Washington currently plays at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, but plans for a new stadium at the former RFK Stadium site were recently announced. The new stadium is projected to cost at least $3.7 billion.

“They’re gonna build a beautiful stadium, that’s what I’m involved in,” Trump stated, emphasizing his support for the project. He expressed confidence in the team’s owner, Josh Harris, and reassured fans that significant developments are underway.

In a separate comment, Trump addressed the ongoing government shutdown, which entered its 40th day. He described the current state of the country as “great,” highlighting a thriving stock market and a significant amount of investment in the nation.