Trump taunts NFL over 'escaping' to locker rooms after changing Eagles visit to a national anthem party
- President Donald Trump taunted the NFL on Tuesday by hyping up a party at the White House he decided to throw without them.
- Trump released a statement saying the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles would not attend the ceremony.
- They were barred because "they disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem."
- Instead Trump invited Eagles fans for a patriotic party at the White House, and said the NFL could not hide in the locker rooms for this one.
President Donald Trump taunted the NFL on Tuesday by hyping up a party at the White House he decided to throw without them.
Typically, US sports teams who win a championship may be invited to the White House. But during Trump's presidency, with his repeated criticism of the NFL and sports teams, the affair has become more complicated.
On Monday, the White House released a statement saying the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles would not attend the ceremony.
It said they weren't coming since "they disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country."
Instead, Trump said that Eagles fans could still come to the White House for a patriotic celebration, and taunted the NFL about it on Tuesday.
"We will proudly be playing the National Anthem and other wonderful music celebrating our Country today at 3 P.M., The White House, with the United States Marine Band and the United States Army Chorus. Honoring America! NFL, no escaping to Locker Rooms!" Trump tweeted.
Trump's mention of "Locker Rooms" recalls a new NFL rule that says all players must either stand on the field during the anthem or wait in the locker room. Trump celebrated the NFL rule at the time.
The rise of anthem protests in the NFL, as well as Trump's criticism of the players, has coincided with a dip in ratings and revenue for teams across the NFL.
"We have had many Championship teams recently at the White House including the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Penguins, New England Patriots, Alabama and Clemson National Champions, and many others. National Anthem & more great music today at 3:00 P.M." Trump continued.