Donald Trump on sunday became the first sitting president to attend a regular-season NFL game since 1978, making a surprise appearance at the Washington Commanders‘ game against the Detroit Lions in Landover, Maryland. The visit occurred as the nation entered the 40th day of a partial government shutdown.
Presidents have historically avoided attending NFL games during the season, largely to avoid the appearance of influencing the league or individual teams. President Jimmy Carter attended a Dallas Cowboys game in 1978, marking the most recent presidential appearance at a regular-season NFL contest prior to Trump’s visit. The former president’s attendance comes amid ongoing discussions regarding a new stadium for the Commanders, a project he indicated he is involved in.
“They’re gonna build a beautiful stadium, that’s what I’m involved in,” Trump said, adding, “We’re getting all the approvals and everything else.And you have a wonderful owner, Josh and his group, and you’re going to see some very good things.”
Asked about the ongoing government shutdown, Trump offered an optimistic assessment of the country’s condition. ”Things are ‘great,'” he stated. He pointed to a record high stock market and decreasing prices, asserting, “We inherited a mess. Prices are coming way down. And I’ll tell you, our country has over $17 trillion being invested in it, which is a record. So we’re doing great.”
The appearance was reported by NBC News,with contributions from the associated Press. Rohan Nadkarni is a sports reporter for NBC News.
