Trump Pressures Commanders to Revert to Redskins, Threatens Stadium Deal Block

President Donald Trump has stirred up a storm by threatening to derail the Washington Commanders’ plans for a new stadium in D.C. unless the team reverts to its former name, the Redskins. In a series of fiery posts on Truth Social, Trump didn’t hold back, declaring that the current moniker, ‘Washington Commanders,’ is ridiculous and insisting a return to the original name would boost the team’s value and make any stadium deal far more exciting.

Trump’s pressure didn’t stop with the Commanders. He also took aim at the Cleveland Guardians, urging them to reclaim their historic name, the Cleveland Indians. He argued that such a move could even turn around the political fortunes of team owner Matt Dolan, who holds a minority stake. With a rallying cry of ‘Make Indians Great Again (MIGA)’, Trump claimed widespread support from Native American communities for restoring these names, framing it as a matter of preserving heritage amidst changing cultural tides.

Responses from the teams, however, suggest resistance. Guardians president Chris Antonetti acknowledged differing perspectives but emphasized the organization’s commitment to building its brand over the past four years. Meanwhile, Commanders owner Josh Harris, who recently met with Trump and D.C. officials to discuss the RFK Stadium site, has made it clear there are no plans to revisit the past. Harris highlighted how the ‘Commanders’ name resonates deeply within the organization and the military-heavy D.C. community, signaling a forward-looking stance.

On the legislative front, some congressional support exists for honoring the old Redskins logo, with Senator Steve Daines of Montana citing negotiations with the NFL and the team to potentially use the logo in ways that could benefit Native American causes. Yet, Harris remains steadfast, leaving this clash of nostalgia, politics, and modern branding unresolved.

This isn’t just about sports—it’s a cultural tug-of-war, with Trump swinging a heavy bat. Whether the teams will bend under presidential pressure or stand their ground remains a game to watch.