Watch: Stadium Erupts as Trump Arrives for 'Sunday Night Football'
Patriotism surged on Sunday night when former President Donald Trump made an appearance at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh.
Trump observed the game from a luxury suite as the Pittsburgh Steelers dominated the New York Jets 37-15 during NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” broadcast.
Arriving in the first quarter, Trump was greeted by supporters in Pittsburgh jerseys, who carried a “Trump Nation” banner, as reported by The Associated Press.
President @realDonaldTrump arrives at Acrisure Stadium to chants of U-S-A! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/TaVUjTDuT9
— Margo Martin (@margommartin) October 21, 2024
Shortly after his arrival, Trump led the crowd in a resounding “USA” chant, Fox News reported.
In the third quarter, a fan carrying a pro-Trump banner made it onto the field, according to the AP.
Some fans noted that Trump — a presidential candidate for a major party and former president — received limited screen time compared to music star and Kansas City Chiefs supporter Taylor Swift, while others missed his appearance entirely.
I’m amazed NBC showed Trump at the game.
— Clandestine (@WarClandestine) October 21, 2024
It was very brief, but you know it killed NBC to have to acknowledge Trump’s presence.
But if it was Taylor Swift, they would have dedicated a 3 minute segment to it.
pic.twitter.com/9GzfrraZWm
Actual footage of the Steelers game tonight NBC won’t show you. pic.twitter.com/iK35jYAiDc
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) October 21, 2024
Two former Steelers icons — wide receiver Antonio Brown and running back Le’Veon Bell — have publicly endorsed Trump.
“Thank you to the Steelers fans for the great reception tonight,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “November 5th will be the most important day in the history of our Country! MAGA 2024!!!”
Trump also shared his thoughts on a recent NFL rule change.
“I hated seeing what the NFL did with the kickoff return. Saw it tonight at the Steelers/Jets game. When you have something that works, don’t ‘tinker’ with it, you may end up with nothing!” Trump shared on Truth Social.
This season, the NFL introduced a “dynamic kickoff” rule aimed at encouraging more kickoff returns while reducing injuries.
Trump’s stadium visit and football commentary capped off a busy day in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state. Earlier, he worked the drive-thru at a Bucks County McDonald’s, delighting customers.
“Love him or hate him, it’s really cool to witness this moment in history,” Caitlin Hanlon, 33, a hairdresser, told the New York Post.
“It’s an amazing moment, and I support him,” she added.
One supporter, receiving her McDonald’s meal from Trump, said, “Mr. President, thank you for taking a bullet for us.”
Her husband added, “Wow, thank you, Mr. President. You gave ordinary people like us a chance to meet you.”