Trump Threatens to Block Commanders’ Washington Stadium Deal Over Name
On July 20, 2025, former President Donald Trump urged the Washington Commanders to abandon their current name and revert to “Redskins” on his Truth Social platform. He claimed a strong public demand and argued that restoring the old name would make the team's stadium deal—and its value—more favorable.
Threat Tied to $3.7B RFK Stadium Deal
Trump went further, warning he might block the Commanders’ $3.7 billion stadium redevelopment at the old RFK Stadium site unless the name switch occurred. The transformation would include a new stadium and surrounding development, with approval pending from the D.C. Council.
Control of RFK Site No Longer Federal
Despite Trump’s stance, Congress passed legislation earlier this year transferring control of the RFK site to the District of Columbia under the RFK Memorial Stadium Campus Revitalization Act. While remaining a federal parcel, D.C. now holds primary decision-making power. City council approval remains essential.
Current Ownership Unbowed
Team owner Josh Harris, who led the franchise's rebranding in 2022, twice confirmed that the Commanders name is definitive. A recent Washington Post–Schar School poll shows rising public support: 50% of city residents and 62% of fans now "like" or "love" the name.
Cleveland Guardians Also Targeted
Trump extended his demands to baseball’s Cleveland Guardians (formerly the Indians), advocating a return to the old name and accusing team president Matt Dolan of political loss tied to the rebranding. The Guardians, however, remain committed to their current identity.
Mixed Local Response
D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson noted no serious proposal had linked the stadium deal to a name change. Mayor Bowser’s office also refrained from comment. Meanwhile, Native American activist Suzan Shown Harjo publicly praised the decisions in Washington and Cleveland to move away from names viewed as racially insensitive.
