President Trump took a subtle jab at the NFL Monday over its national anthem protests by praising NASCAR fans, drivers and crew for standing whenever “The Star-Spangled Banner” plays.
[Related: NASCAR declares respect for national anthem and right to ‘peacefully express one’s opinion’]
“This lively sport reflects our national spirit and our can-do attitude. At every NASCAR race, you will see thousands of patriotic Americans from grandstands to the pit stalls, proudly waving our flag and roaring with joy at the words ‘start your engines,’” Trump said during a White House event honoring NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. “And I will tell you one thing I know about NASCAR: they do indeed … stand for the playing of the national anthem. They do indeed.”
Trump: “I will tell you one thing I know about NASCAR, they do indeed stand for the playing of the national anthem.” pic.twitter.com/phzyBNusu7
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) May 21, 2018
The president then revealed he was advised not to comment on the national anthem protests.
“Somebody said, ‘maybe you shouldn’t say that. That’ll be controversial,’” Trump said. “I said, that’s OK. NASCAR’s not going to mind it at all.”
The president sparked controversy last year when he criticized NFL players who took a knee when the national anthem played before games.
Trump urged NFL fans to boycott games if the league failed to crack down on players kneeling during the anthem. He also called on the NFL to implement a rule requiring players to stand.
