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Trump Denounces Native American Mascot Changes as 'Degrading'

The former president has criticized recent team renamings, voiced support for retaining traditional names, and urged federal intervention in ongoing disputes.

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President Donald Trump after signing executive orders in the Oval Office at the White House on April 23, 2025.

Overview

  • Donald Trump called the renaming of sports teams with Native American references 'degrading to the Indian population,' citing conversations with individuals of Indian heritage who support the original names.
  • Trump specifically praised the former Washington Redskins name as 'superior' to the current Washington Commanders and criticized MLB’s Cleveland Indians' rebranding to the Guardians as 'demeaning.'
  • He expressed support for the Kansas City Chiefs retaining their name and defended the Massapequa Chiefs logo, urging Education Secretary Linda McMahon to intervene in New York’s mascot ban enforcement.
  • A federal judge recently upheld New York State’s ban on Indigenous-themed school mascots, rejecting School District’s legal challenge.
  • Public opinion remains divided, with a Washington Post poll showing 58% of Commanders fans disapprove of the team’s new name.