Super Bowl viewers had mixed reactions when the camera focused on Donald Trump during the national anthem, sparking debate online.
The 2025 Super Bowl was a memorable event for many reasons, one of which was the presence of Donald Trump.
As the first sitting U.S. president to attend a Super Bowl, Trump was a focal point during the national anthem.
However, the reactions from viewers were mixed, leading to discussions across social media platforms.
Trump made history by attending the Super Bowl.
On February 9, 2025, Donald Trump attended the Super Bowl, held at the Superdome in New Orleans.
His attendance was significant as he became the first sitting president to experience the annual football championship live.
Fans were eager to see how he would interact with the game and the crowd.
As Grammy-winning artist Jon Batiste performed the national anthem, the camera panned to Trump and his daughter, Ivanka, who were seated in the stands.
This moment quickly caught the attention of viewers both in the stadium and at home.
Super Bowl viewers react to the camera focusing on Donald Trump during national anthem
When the camera focused on Trump, opinions began to vary.
Some viewers were convinced that the crowd was booing him.
Comments on social media reflected this sentiment, with one user stating, “Y’all didn’t boo at Donald Trump loud enough.”
Another viewer remarked that showing Trump during the anthem forced them and others to boo.
However, not everyone agreed on what they heard.
Some viewers were unsure whether the sounds were boos or cheers.
One user said: He was cheered and vastly admired. You other people need your hearing checked.
The second user wrote: He was booed
The third user commented: He was cheered!
Another user said: I would like to know why he saluted. Did he do some military service?
Trump’s statement before the game
Before the game, Trump expressed his excitement about attending.
He stated, “I look forward to joining the fans in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX to cheer on two great teams.”
“The coaches, players, and team staff on the field tonight represent the best of the best in professional football, but they also embody the best of the American Dream.
“Their hard work, dedication, and tenacity is admirable, and their individual journeys are as inspiring as the drive and determination that has led them to this extraordinary moment.”
His comments were aimed at highlighting the importance of football in American culture, suggesting that it brings families and communities together.
Trump’s words reflected his view on how sports can foster a sense of national pride.
“Football is America’s most popular sport – for good reason – it fosters a sense of national unity, bringing families, friends, and fans together and strengthening communities.”
The anthem performance at the Super Bowl
Jon Batiste’s performance of the national anthem was well-received by many in attendance.
His powerful rendition aimed to honor the country and set the tone for the game.
However, the moment was somewhat overshadowed by the focus on Trump in the stands.
The juxtaposition of a celebrated national performance with the divisive figure of Trump created an interesting dynamic.
Despite the controversy, Batiste’s singing was a highlight for many fans.
His talent and energy captivated the audience, and many hoped the focus would remain on the music and the game.