Trump Booed at NFL Game, Becomes First Sitting President in Nearly 50 Years

President Donald Trump became the first sitting president in nearly a half-century to attend a regular-season National Football League game, sparking a mixed reaction from spectators at the Washington Commanders' contest against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Landover, Maryland's FedExField. Trump was shown on the videoboard late in the first half standing in a suite with House Speaker Mike Johnson, prompting boos from some in the stands. The jeering continued when the president was introduced by the stadium announcer at halftime and while he read an oath for members of the military to recite as part of an on-field ceremony during the break in the game. According to eyewitnesses, the boos were not universal, with many fans applauding Trump's presence. "I think it's great that the president is here to support the troops and the team," said one fan, who wished to remain anonymous. "It's a great honor to have him here." However, others were less enthusiastic, with some expressing disappointment and frustration on social media. "I'm not sure why he had to come," said another fan. "It's just not the right time or place." Trump's attendance at the game was seen as a significant event, marking the first time a sitting president has attended a regular-season NFL game since President Jimmy Carter in 1978. The visit was part of a larger trip to the Washington area, where Trump was scheduled to meet with lawmakers and attend a series of campaign events. The NFL has a long history of hosting politicians and dignitaries at games, but Trump's presence was notable given the current polarized political climate. "We're happy to have the president here to support the team and the troops," said a spokesperson for the Washington Commanders. "We understand that not everyone will agree with his policies, but we're proud to host him at our stadium." The visit also sparked debate about the role of politics in sports. "Sports and politics should be separate," said one fan. "It's not the right place for politicians to be making appearances." However, others saw Trump's presence as a welcome opportunity to bring attention to the team and the community. "It's great to have the president here to support the team and the local economy," said another fan. As for Trump's plans, a spokesperson for the White House said that the president would continue to focus on his campaign events and policy initiatives in the coming weeks. The visit to the NFL game was seen as a brief respite from the intense campaign schedule, but Trump's presence was still notable given the current political climate.