President’s Tweets on Anthem Protests In Midseason Form After First Night of NFL Preseason

The president felt the need to rally against the handful of players who protested last night.

Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens players kneel in protest during the national anthem before the NFL International Series match at Wembley Stadium, London. (Simon Cooper/PA Images via Getty Images)
PA Images via Getty Images

Last night, a handful of players on the Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks, and San Francisco 49ers took a knee, raised a fist or did not take the field during the playing of the national anthem before NFL preseason games last night.

The protests, as has been well-documented at this point, are meant to call attention to police brutality against minorities and encourage a dialogue about social justice and equality issues.

Unfortunately, what they actually do, in addition to doing what they are supposed to, is give President Trump an excuse to tweet about them.

After players protested Thursday night, the NFL released a statement:

“The NFL has been engaged in constructive discussions with the NFL Players Association regarding the anthem and issues of equality and social justice that are of concern to many Americans. While those discussions continue, the NFL has agreed to delay implementing or enforcing any club work rules that could result in players being disciplined for their conduct during the performance of the anthem.

“Meanwhile, there has been no change in the NFL’s policy regarding the national anthem. The anthem will continue to be played before every game, and all player and non-player personnel on the field at that time are expected to stand during the presentation of the flag and performance of the anthem. Personnel who do not wish to do so can choose to remain in the locker room.

“We remain committed to working with the players to identify solutions and to continue making progress on important social issues affecting our communities.”

The league is currently working towards a new anthem policy with the NFLPA that will hopefully resolve the situation on that end.

No matter what solution is reached, however, don’t expect the president’s tweets about the issue to stop.

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