Steelers reply to followers angered by Mason Rudolph’s presence at Donald Trump rally
The “follow sports activities” door swings each methods.
Whereas the time period rose to significance as a catchphrase for conservative voices who hoped to shout down athletes and media with conflicting beliefs (athletes and media who agreed had been and are exempt from being informed to close up), followers who’ve issues concerning the present state of the union are objecting to these athletes who’re aligning with the one who’s working the present.
As an illustration, the Steelers handled complaints from followers and season-ticket holders concerning Friday night time’s look by quarterback Mason Rudolph and security Miles Killebrew at a neighborhood rally held by President Trump. Steelers legend Rocky Bleier additionally attended.
By way of Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Put up-Gazette, the response was sturdy sufficient to immediate the Steelers to ship an e mail to those that objected. Right here’s the complete textual content of the e-mail, as posted by Dulac:
“We respect you taking the time to share your ideas with us. As valued followers, your voice is a necessary a part of what makes our Steelers group and fan base so sturdy.
“We perceive {that a} current rally in Pittsburgh has generated a variety of reactions from our fan base. Our alumni and present gamers make their very own particular person choices that mirror their views, and they don’t essentially characterize the view of all the Pittsburgh Steelers group. Thanks once more for sharing your ideas. We respect your ardour and your continued assist of the group.”
The Rooney household, which has owned the Steelers since their inception, have routinely and aggressively supported the Democratic occasion. Dan Rooney, the late father of present proprietor Artwork Rooney II, served because the U.S. ambassador to Eire beneath President Barack Obama.
The gamers have the precise to attend the rally, if they need. The followers who’re upset have the precise to say so. The Steelers have the precise to attempt to put out the fireplace. It’s all a part of the First Modification, in full apply.
On the finish of the day, the Steelers simply need to win soccer video games. In the event that they had been involved concerning the political views of their gamers, they wouldn’t be ready (and ready) for Aaron Rodgers to simply accept a suggestion of employment. In his current three-hour go to with Rogan, Rodgers’s political beliefs had been as clear as they’ve ever been.
Particularly since Rodgers referred to the latest former president as a “fucking neck sniffer.”