Jaxson Dart’s decision to introduce Donald Trump at a rally last week has ignited a firestorm, with critics slamming the New York Giants quarterback for aligning himself with a figure they say embodies racism and poor judgment. ABC’s Joy Behar didn’t hold back, calling Dart’s support for Trump “the definition of stupidity and racist” during an episode of The View. The backlash has rippled through the NFL, and some of Dart’s own teammates have questioned his move.
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Behar’s criticism was sharp and unfiltered. According to The Hill, Behar pointed to Trump’s history of housing discrimination in the 1970s, his administration’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and past controversies like sharing images that depicted the Obamas as apes. “Dart works in a profession that’s 55 to 60% Black,” Behar said. “That is just the definition of stupidity and racist in my opinion.”
At the rally, Dart’s introduction of Trump was enthusiastic, if not overly polished. “What’s up, what’s up, what’s up. Look, Big Blue Nation, it’s a pleasure to be here,” he said, calling it an “honor” and a “privilege” to share the stage with the president.
Trump made things worse with his comments on Dart’s physique
Trump, never one to miss an opportunity for a crowd-pleasing remark, turned his attention to Dart’s physique. “I’m looking at Jaxson… I’d like to know, is there any woman in the audience that thinks they can tackle that guy? Because I’d like to meet you. I’d like to shake your hand,” Trump said. He went on to praise Dart’s “beautiful” build, comparing his legs to “tree trunks.”
The moment was classic Trump, equal parts flattery and spectacle, but the kind of attention that can backfire in a league where politics and race are deeply intertwined. Trump has a long history of courting athletes and celebrities who support him, from UFC fighters to NFL stars, often using them as props to bolster his image.
His upcoming UFC fight night at the White House, timed to coincide with his 80th birthday and the “America 250” celebrations, is just the latest example of his love for blending sports, patriotism, and personal branding.
Dart’s endorsement has made many others angry
Former NFL player and Fox Sports analyst Emmanuel Acho called out the Giants quarterback for what he described as a “pretty stupid” decision, given the potential fallout among his teammates. Acho didn’t mince words when he addressed Dart’s public support for Trump. “It’s time to have an uncomfortable conversation about what the hell is going on in New York,” Acho said.
According to Reality Tea, he added, “Jaxson Dart, the quarterback, supporting President Donald Trump? He’s allowed to do that, he’s a citizen. If Jaxson Dart is allowed to support Donald Trump, then his teammate is allowed to have his grievances with him doing that.” He was referring to Dart’s teammate Abdul Carter’s disapproval of his actions.
introducing Trump is … New York Giants QB Jaxson Dart pic.twitter.com/cEB8bU0hcM
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 22, 2026
“Here is my issue,” Acho continued. “Jaxson Dart, you know how several of your brothers, your teammates, your friends, your ride or dies, how they might feel about this individual. I don’t think there is a lot of wisdom or disarmament in very publicly supporting an individual who many of your teammates felt offended by. So Jaxson Dart, yes, you can do whatever the hell you want, but I don’t think it’s a wise decision without consulting some of your teammates.”
Dart, who just wrapped up his rookie season with the Giants, hasn’t responded to Acho’s criticism or the broader backlash. At 22, he’s still finding his footing in the NFL, both on and off the field.
His introduction of Trump might have been a calculated attempt to align himself with a powerful political figure, but it’s clear that the move has backfired in some circles. The NFL is a league where players are increasingly using their platforms to speak out on social and political issues, and Dart’s decision to side with Trump, whether out of genuine support or opportunism, has put him at odds with a significant portion of his peers.
Dart introducing trump was both stupid (and) or tone deaf. Supporting trump loudly is a statement about one self at this point.
— Tony (@tony257946) May 23, 2026
The fallout isn’t just about politics
It’s about representation, respect, and the unspoken rules of locker room dynamics. The NFL has spent years trying to distance itself from its history of racial inequality, and players of color have been at the forefront of that push. When a high-profile player like Dart publicly supports a figure accused of racism, it sends a message that can feel like a slap in the face to those who’ve fought for progress.
Behar’s comment about the “definition of stupidity and racist” might sound harsh, but it reflects the frustration of many who see Dart’s move as tone-deaf at best and harmful at worst. For Dart, the controversy raises questions about his future in the league. Will his teammates rally around him, or will this create a rift that affects his performance on the field? Will sponsors or fans view him differently?
And perhaps most importantly, will he take the criticism to heart and reconsider how he engages with politics moving forward? The NFL is a business, and players are often judged as much for their off-field decisions as their on-field talent. Dart’s introduction of Trump might have been a one-time event, but the consequences could linger for much longer.
(Featured image: All-Pro Reels)
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