July 21, 2025 – Washington, D.C. — Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for the Washington Commanders to revert to their former “Redskins” name—and threatened to block their planned $3.7 billion stadium project at RFK Stadium if they refuse. He also urged the Cleveland Guardians to revert to “Indians,” reigniting a flashpoint over team names considered offensive to Native Americans.
The Stadium Stakes
- Trump posted on Truth Social: “I may put a restriction on them … I won’t make a deal for them to build a Stadium in Washington” unless the name is changed back.
- The stadium land—formerly RFK—was transferred from federal to D.C. control in January under the RFK Stadium Campus Revitalization Act. Final approval of the stadium deal rests with the D.C. Council .
- D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson confirmed there are no name-related conditions under discussion, and owner Josh Harris affirmed the “Commanders” name will remain.
Political and Cultural Clash
- Trump’s demands echo his broader “Make Indians Great Again (MIGA)” campaign—framing the old names as honoring Native American heritage.
- The Guardian also emphasized that Trump wants both teams to revert—calling for change out of “respect for Native Americans.”
- Both franchises insist no reversal is under consideration: Commanders management stands firm, while Guardians leadership defends their current brand as a positive evolution.
What Comes Next
| Decision Point | Status |
|---|---|
| Council Approval | Stadium plan still requires D.C. Council vote; name issue not a current focus |
| Trump Authority | Limited—land is no longer under direct federal control, and Congress transferred authority to D.C. |
| Public Sentiment | Surveys show rising local support for “Commanders”; Cleveland similarly resolute |
In summary: Trump’s call for a name reversion has thrust the Commanders stadium project into political limbo—but the franchise and D.C. officials remain committed to their current direction. With limited federal clout and shifting public sentiment, this turning point underscores broader cultural and political tensions in American sports.
