President Donald Trump has reignited a firestorm of controversy by urging the Washington Commanders to revert to their former name, the “Redskins,” in a recent Truth Social post. Calling for an immediate return to the moniker used from 1937 to 2020, Trump claims it carries “heritage and prestige” and insists there is a “big clamoring” for the change, particularly among Native American communities. However, his statements have sparked a polarized debate, with supporters citing tradition and critics decrying the name as racially insensitive.

Trump’s Call for a Name Reversal

In a Sunday morning post on Truth Social, Trump demanded the Washington Commanders restore their original name, the “Redskins,” and similarly called for the Cleveland Guardians to revert to the “Indians.” He argued that “times are different now” and that “our great Indian people, in massive numbers, want this to happen,” claiming the rebrand erases Native American heritage. Yet, no concrete evidence has been provided to support his assertion of widespread Native American support.

Trump’s remarks echo earlier statements in April and July 2025, where he expressed disdain for the Commanders’ name, saying it “doesn’t have the same ring” and suggesting the original name was “superior.” He also noted that winning could make the current name more palatable, referencing the team’s strong 2024 season under rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The Rebranding History

The Washington Commanders dropped the “Redskins” name in 2020 amid nationwide racial justice protests following George Floyd’s murder, prompted by decades of criticism from Native American groups and sponsors like Nike and FedEx, who deemed the term offensive. The team briefly operated as the Washington Football Team before adopting “Commanders” in 2022. Despite the change, a Washington Post poll in June 2025 found 58% of fans dissatisfied with the new name, fueling nostalgia for the old moniker.

Supporters of reverting to “Redskins,” including former Washington player Jason Buck, argue it honors tradition and team pride. The Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) has also backed the push, claiming the name symbolizes “strength, honor, and pride” for Native Americans and advocating for its return as a way to foster cultural appreciation.

Critics Push Back

Opponents, including Native American activists and advocacy groups, argue that “Redskins” is a racial slur rooted in America’s history of violence against Indigenous peoples. The term’s retirement in 2020 was seen as a step toward inclusivity, with protests dating back to the 1960s highlighting its harmful connotations. Critics contend that reverting to the name would undermine progress and dismiss the concerns of marginalized communities.

The Commanders’ ownership, led by Josh Harris since 2023, has firmly rejected calls to reinstate the “Redskins” name, emphasizing their commitment to the current brand as a reflection of inclusivity and modernity. Harris reiterated this stance in April 2025, despite fan pressure and Trump’s comments.

A Broader Cultural Flashpoint

Trump’s remarks tap into a larger cultural and political debate about sports team names, identity, and political correctness. He has framed the issue as part of his broader campaign against “woke” culture, a sentiment echoed by some fans and figures like Sen. Steve Daines, who linked the name to honoring Native American heritage, citing support from the Blackfeet tribe. However, many Native advocacy groups argue the change was long overdue and that reverting would be a step backward.

The debate also intersects with the Commanders’ plans for a new stadium at the RFK Stadium site, with some speculating Trump could leverage federal control over the land to influence the team’s branding. However, as a private entity, the NFL and Commanders remain outside his direct authority.

What’s Next for the Commanders?

As the Commanders prepare for the 2025 NFL season, the name debate continues to divide fans. While some embrace the nostalgia of “Redskins,” others support the team’s new identity, especially after a successful 2024 season that saw them reach the NFC Championship Game. Trump’s outspoken stance ensures the issue remains a flashpoint, blending sports, politics, and cultural identity.

Stay tuned to ClickUSANews for the latest on this evolving story and its impact on the NFL.