Former US President Donald Trump has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs' decision to skip the traditional White House visit after their Super Bowl victory, specifically praising kicker Harrison Butker.
Trump took to social media to commend Butker, calling him a "great player" and suggesting the Chiefs made a mistake by not accepting the presidential invitation. The comments come as the team faces criticism from some quarters for breaking with longstanding NFL tradition.
Chiefs Break With Tradition
The Kansas City Chiefs, who won Super Bowl LVIII in February, became the first team in recent memory to decline the customary White House visit following their championship victory. While no official reason was given, speculation has swirled about potential political motivations behind the decision.
Harrison Butker, known for his conservative Catholic views, has previously made headlines for his outspoken positions on social issues. The kicker's 2023 commencement speech at Benedictine College, where he criticized LGBTQ+ Pride Month and working women, drew both support and condemnation.
Political Football
Trump's intervention adds a political dimension to what is normally a non-partisan sporting tradition. "Harrison Butker is being targeted by the Left for his strong Christian beliefs - but he's a great player who helped win the Championship," Trump wrote.
The former president's comments have reignited debate about the increasing politicization of sports, with some praising his support for Butker's right to free speech while others argue it's inappropriate to drag athletes into political battles.
Neither the Chiefs organization nor Butker has responded publicly to Trump's remarks. The team begins its defense of the Super Bowl title when the new NFL season kicks off in September.
