The Political and Cultural Symbolism of Trump at the Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is among the largest sporting events in the United States and attracts millions of viewers each year. The game itself is a significant draw, but it tends to be a platform for political figures, celebrities, and cultural events. One of these is Trump’s presence at the Super Bowl, which has always ignited national debate, divided media, and parsing of some type from his backers and characters.
Through the Years: Trump’s Appearances at the Super Bowl
There is nothing quite like Donald Trump in high-profile events, and the 45th President of the United States has no shortage of them. In and out of office, his presence at the Super Bowl has always made news. For years we’ve been grappling with what it means that Trump is at the Super Bowl; now, in 2023, we’re still grappling, because there’s no denying that his influence on American politics and culture will remain strong.
While in office, Trump often said what he thought about the NFL, player protests, and patriotism. In 2020, he drew attention to a controversial Super Bowl campaign ad that became widely criticized by the general public. Attending in person or engaging in the conversation online, Trump at the Super Bowl has yet to be a worthy event for his reassurance and detractors.
Speculation is building ahead of the 2024 Super Bowl about whether Trump will show up. Undoubtedly, his political capital is still undeniable, and with the impending elections, it would not be out of reach to assume that his attendance at the Super Bowl could be strategic. Like, the Super Bowl could be a particularly effective way of connecting with Trump voters, especially in swing states where football is religion.
If he does show up, anticipate mixed responses. His backers will no doubt treat his presence as a display of strength and patriotism, and his detractors will contend that one of the most solemn functions in American life has been politicized. By attending, running a campaign ad, or commenting on social media, Trump at the Super Bowl will be all the rage.
Trump and the N.F.L: A Complex Relationship
The $10,000 question: What is the former president doing in the NFL? His position on protests at the national anthem, spearheaded by Colin Kaepernick and other players, was widely controversial. Trump also was critical of the protests, saying they disrespected the flag and the military. Many players and activists pushed back, arguing that the protests were about racial injustice and police brutality.
Yet these tensions aside, Trump has long been a boisterous sports fan and was always going to be a figure to see at the Super Bowl as a conversation about the intersection of politics and sports continues to be had. His previous remarks and actions about the league make his presence at the event never simply about football—it is always politically charged.
The media frenzy and public reaction
Anytime Trump is part of a big thing, the media industry feels it. Trump at the Super Bowl will be in print and on television and radio on the front page, every network five hundred times, every reaction, every word. Conservative media will probably praise him for showing up, saying he stood up for his country, while left-leaning outlets may call him out for politicizing the whole event.
Opinions will also explode on social media. Hashtags involving Trump during the Super Bowl will dominate social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Memes, debates, and reactions will inundate timelines, a microcosm of the country’s deep political divide. The Super Bowl has never been just a game; it’s a cultural event, and Trump’s active role in it guarantees it will be even more politically charged this year.
Translated into English: “Trump has redefined norms of behavior in all sorts of ways.
Trump continues to lead the 2024 presidential pack. His presence at the Super Bowl in person, in ads could be a strategic show of force to energize supporters. Having millions of Americans watching him, Trump at the Super Bowl gives him yet another enormous platform to hammer home the message.
Candidates often use major events to “touch base with voters,” and Trump is a maestro of media spectacle. His appearance at the Super Bowl could be seen as an opportunity to prove that he remains a key player in American politics. Whether he makes an official statement, meets with key figures, or simply enjoys the game, his presence will be evidenced.
Super Bowl Ads: Will Trump Air a Campaign Ad?
The Super Bowl is well-known for its big ads. Political ads during the Super Bowl are not exactly a new phenomenon, and Trump has taken advantage of this opportunity in the past. He ran a Super Bowl ad in 2020 touting his accomplishments on criminal justice reform.
It will undoubtedly help his campaign if Trump chooses to run a campaign ad during the 2024 Super Bowl. Trump’s reach at the Super Bowl through advertising would give him access to millions of undecided voters. And, given his history of bold political moves, it wouldn’t be surprising if a campaign ad aired during the Super Bowl.
Trump vs. Biden: The Super Bowl Showdown?
Should Joe Biden, the sitting president, also show up at the Super Bowl, it may result in a political face-off. The comparison of the two sitting presidents at the Super Bowl would showcase both contrasting political styles—one bombastic, the other dull. Biden will probably talk about common ground and economic renewal, while Trump will probably hit the topics of the day—countering crime, border security, and inflation.
The Super Bowl, while a sporting event at its heart, could turn into a battleground for competing political narratives. With the election season fully underway, the event represents a golden opportunity for each candidate to reach a large audience.
Final word: The Trump effect at the Super Bowl
To see Trump at the Super Bowl isn’t just the fleeting appearance of a figure; it’s a defining moment of political life and culture of how we talk about life. In-person attendance, “going live” with an advertisement, or taking to social media will all generate massive reactions. His ability to monopolize media coverage makes sure that anything he does in the context of a Super Bowl will be talked about.
As the 2024 Super Bowl gets underway, the eyes will be on the appearance of Trump. Does he plan to use it as a campaign platform? Will he go big? One thing’s for sure: Trump at the Super Bowl will be the most talked-about part of the event. Say what you want about him, but Trump knows how to make headlines, and the Super Bowl is the ideal platform for his political and media appearances.
