Trump Links Support for New Commanders Stadium to Return of ‘Redskins’ Name

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President Donald Trump has publicly warned that he may block the proposed $3.7 billion stadium project for the Washington Commanders unless the team reverts to its former name, the “Redskins.” Trump, now seeking a return to the White House, made the statement in a recent social media post, arguing that the name changes disrespected Native American history and tradition.

The stadium project, intended to redevelop the RFK Stadium site in Washington, D.C., has gained momentum following a land transfer bill signed earlier this year that grants the district a 99-year lease. Despite this legislative backing, Trump has vowed to use his influence, if re-elected, to place legislative restrictions on the deal should the franchise refuse to change its name.

In his statement, Trump claimed many Native Americans prefer the original name and suggested the rebranding was a result of political correctness rather than public demand. He also introduced a new campaign slogan, “MAKE INDIANS GREAT AGAIN,” aligning his opposition to the name change with his broader appeal to traditionalist voters.

However, resistance to Trump’s demand has been firm. Commanders’ owner Josh Harris and Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser have reiterated their support for the team’s rebranding, emphasizing that the decision was made in 2020 to move away from a name long considered racially offensive. The team and city leadership have stated their intent to proceed with the project under the Commanders’ name.

Native American advocacy groups have condemned Trump’s remarks, reiterating that the term “Redskins” is widely regarded as a racial slur. They argue that the 2020 name change was a necessary step toward greater cultural sensitivity and historical recognition, not an erasure of heritage.

While Trump lacks direct authority to stop the stadium project, any action he might take would require support from Congress. Local D.C. leaders remain in control of the ongoing development review and are moving forward with plans regardless of federal pressure.

As the issue unfolds, Trump’s challenge to the team’s identity has injected fresh controversy into an already sensitive topic. The stadium deal now carries not just financial and urban development implications, but symbolic and political ones as well. Whether Trump’s threats resonate with lawmakers or voters remains to be seen, but the Commanders’ leadership appears intent on keeping the name and pushing the project forward.