Archive · 27 Jul 2025
Trump Threatens to Block Stadium Deal over Redskins Name
Former President Donald Trump wants the Washington Commanders football team to change its name back to the Washington Redskins, which many Native Americans find offensive.
He says he might stop the team from building a new stadium if they don't.
The team changed its name from Redskins in 2020 after years of protest.
Native American leaders and researchers disagree with Trump, saying that such names cause real harm.
Experts say these mascots can lead to problems like depression among Native American children.
Some schools and teams have stopped using Native-themed mascots, while others continue.
Trump has made similar requests of other sports teams, too.
Donald Trump may block a new stadium deal for the Washington Commanders.
Trump wants the team to revert to its old name, the Washington Redskins.
The team dropped the Redskins name in 2020 after pressure from Native American groups.
Native American leaders and experts disagree with Trump's stance on the name.
Experts cite the harm caused by Native-themed mascots, including higher rates of depression.
- Who
- Donald Trump and the Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins).
- What
- Donald Trump wants the Washington Commanders to revert to their former name, the Washington Redskins, and may block a stadium deal if they don't.
- When
- The demand was made recently following the announcement of a stadium plan.
- Where
- Washington, D.C.
- Why
- Trump believes the old name would make the team more valuable and is responding to what he says is public clamor.
Native American Leaders & Experts
Donald Trump
Impact of Native-Themed Mascots
Native American Leaders & Experts
Native-themed mascots cause harm, linked to depression, self-harm, and substance abuse.
Donald Trump
The mascots are a tribute, and taking them away harms their heritage.
- Team Name Change
- Commanders changed from Redskins in 2020
- Stadium Plan
- Announced for the site of RFK Stadium
- Proposed Stadium Cost
- £3 billion
- Stadium Capacity
- 65,000 seats
- NCAI President's Stance
- Trump's comments ignore the harm from Native-themed mascots