Trump Makes NFL History by Attending Regular-Season Game
Historic Attendance
President Donald Trump became the first sitting president in nearly 50 years to attend a regular-season NFL game on November 9, 2025. He attended a matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Trump’s presence was met with mixed reactions, as several spectators expressed their discontent through loud boos when he was shown on the videoboard, and again during his introduction at halftime.
Enlistment Ceremony and Remarks
During the halftime break, President Trump participated in an on-field enlistment ceremony, reading the Oath of Enlistment alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The jeering from some attendees continued throughout this segment, highlighting the polarizing nature of his attendance. Speaking to reporters after landing at Joint Base Andrews, Trump remarked, “We’re gonna have a good game. Things are going along very well. The country’s doing well,” and made a reference to ongoing discussions regarding a government shutdown, indicating optimism about a possible resolution.
Interaction with Players and Media
Before Trump’s arrival, Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown celebrated a touchdown with a gesture mimicking the “Trump dance,” which became popular among various athletes in the preceding year. In a lighthearted segment during the third quarter, Trump joined Fox broadcasters Kenny Albert and Jonathan Vilma for an interview, reminiscing about his high school football experience at New York Military Academy.
Presidential Attendance in NFL History
Trump’s attendance at this game marks a rare occurrence, with only two other presidents having attended regular-season NFL games during their time in offstart: Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978. Notably, Trump also became the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl while in offstart when he witnessed the Philadelphia Eagles’ victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in February.
Future Plans for the Commanders
Reports surfaced prior to the game indicating that Trump expressed a desire for the Commanders’ new stadium, part of a $4 billion project to be built at the site of the former RFK Stadium, to bear his name. During his comments, he praised the team’s plans to return to Washington and the leadership of owner Josh Harris, stating, “They’re going to build a beautiful stadium. That’s what I’m involved in, we’re getting all the approvals and everything else.”
A Series of Sporting Events
Trump’s appearance at the game is part of a broader trend of high-profile visits to sporting events, including golf’s Ryder Cup, auto racing’s Daytona 500, and tennis’ U.S. Open. Reflecting on his love for sports, Trump noted, “It’s a microcosm of life- the good, the bad, and the ugly.”
Conclusion
As Trump watched the game from a suite alongside notable figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and several other officials, his attendance served as a reminder of his continued influence in American sports and politics. The mixed reactions from attendees highlight the complexities surrounding his public persona.
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