Donald Trump refuses to take a knee when it comes to countering the wave of national anthem protests across the NFL.
President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence released a petition demanding all players and fans stand for the national anthem and emailed supporters asking for signatures Thursday, according to the GOP’s website.
“The President has asked for a list of supporters who stand for the National Anthem. Add your name below to show your patriotism and support,” the petition reads, before asking for your name, email and zip code.
The petition comes just one day after Trump criticized the NFL for not passing a rule that would penalize players who don’t stand for the anthem.
“The NFL has decided that it will not force players to stand for the playing of our National Anthem. Total disrespect for our great country!” Trump tweeted early Wednesday morning.
While Roger Goodell said he believes everyone “should” stand for the anthem, the league will not mandate players to do so after meeting with owners, players and union representatives Tuesday.
In a later tweet, Trump suggested action needed to be taken in response to the large number of players who continue to protest during the national anthem.
“.@NFL: Too much talk, not enough action. Stand for the National Anthem,” Trump tweeted.
The NFL and NFLPA released a statement Tuesday describing the meeting as “productive” and a step in the right direction to “promote positive social change and address inequality.”
Trump has harshly criticized players who refuse to stand for the anthem, previously stating at a rally in late September owners need to “get that son of a bitch off the field.”
Trump’s comments, however, only appeared to fuel the anthem protest movement as more players than ever before protested the national anthem in some manner the following Sunday.
As of Wednesday evening, neither the NFL nor the NFLPA has released a statement addressing Trump’s petition.
