Overview

• President Donald Trump publicly urged the Cleveland Guardians and Washington Commanders to revert to their former Native American-themed names on July 20, citing supposed Indigenous support and warning of stadium approval delays.
• Guardians president Chris Antonetti said the franchise remains focused on building its Guardians identity and is not reconsidering any name change.
• The Lake Erie Native American Council issued a statement rejecting Trump’s claims and reaffirming that dehumanizing mascots offer no honor to Indigenous people.
• Former Guardians manager Terry Francona praised owner Paul Dolan for the rebrand decision and defended the change as a respectful step despite some fan resistance.
• Ohio Republicans such as Sen. Bernie Moreno and Rep. Jim Jordan backed Trump’s demand, but many local officials and residents have dismissed it as a political distraction.