Pres. Donald Trump woke up Tuesday morning and decided that it was time to address a pressing national issue affecting millions of Americans: the scourge of African American NFL players kneeling during the playing of the National Anthem at football games.
Naturally, Trump took to Twitter and used his tiny fingers to call for ending “tax breaks” for the NFL.
Why is the NFL getting massive tax breaks while at the same time disrespecting our Anthem, Flag and Country? Change tax law!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 10, 2017
The only problem is that the NFL has been paying taxes since 2015. Individual teams do receive tax breaks from state and local governments when it comes to the construction of new stadiums or the renovation of older structures.
However, these tax breaks usually come in the form of tax-free bonds. In the past, presidents — as well as members of Congress — have tried and failed to limit those subsidies.
Trump’s tweet is the latest in a long line of tweets in which he crusades against kneeling players and their team owners.
The issue of kneeling has nothing to do with race. It is about respect for our Country, Flag and National Anthem. NFL must respect this!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 25, 2017
Sports fans should never condone players that do not stand proud for their National Anthem or their Country. NFL should change policy!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 24, 2017
On Sunday, Vice President Mike Pence staged a “walk-out” during an NFL game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers. Several players decided to take a knee in protest during the National Anthem. Trump later tweeted his pride while confessing that it was a publicity stunt that he personally orchestrated.
I asked @VP Pence to leave stadium if any players kneeled, disrespecting our country. I am proud of him and @SecondLady Karen.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 8, 2017
Meanwhile, California is burning, Puerto Rico is still reeling from hurricane damage, and the White House is silent in the wake of the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, which took place less than two weeks ago in Las Vegas.
But hey, Trump has more important things to talk about, like retiring Republican senators who dislike him and African American NFL football players who exercise their constitutional right to protest and retiring.
