President-Elect Donald Trump Attends Army-Navy Game, Highlights Key Allies and Emerging Administration
LANDOVER, Md. — On Saturday, December 14, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump made a prominent appearance at one of college football’s most iconic rivalries, the Army-Navy game, held at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Surrounded by political allies and members of his emerging administration, Trump used the event to reinforce key relationships and energize his base ahead of his inauguration on January 20, 2025.
Trump Highlights Key Allies at Army-Navy Game
Trump was joined by Vice President-elect JD Vance, Elon Musk—his pick for the proposed Department of Government Efficiency—and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, among others. The Navy triumphed over the Army with a decisive 31-13 victory in this 125th showdown between the service academies.
Daniel Penny, a Marine veteran recently acquitted of criminally negligent homicide charges stemming from a high-profile subway incident in New York City, was also present. Penny, invited by JD Vance, drew attention as a symbol of the political fight against what Vance called “unjust prosecution.”
A Hero’s Welcome at Northwest Stadium
Trump arrived shortly before kickoff and was greeted with loud applause and chants of “USA! USA!” as his image, alongside Vance and Musk, appeared on the stadium’s jumbotron. Trump responded with a simple “Thank you,” acknowledging the crowd’s enthusiasm.
This marked a return to tradition for Trump, who attended Army-Navy games as president-elect in 2016 and during his first term. The event not only underscored Trump’s connection to military culture but also served as a platform to spotlight his administration’s plans and key appointments.
A Cabinet Taking Shape
Trump’s attendance at the game also highlighted the ongoing discussions about his Cabinet selections. Pete Hegseth, a former Army combat veteran and Fox News host, is Trump’s current pick for Secretary of Defense. However, Hegseth’s confirmation prospects are uncertain due to allegations of excessive drinking, sexual misconduct, and controversial comments on women in combat roles.
If Hegseth’s nomination falters, Governor Ron DeSantis is reportedly being considered as an alternative. Despite this, Trump demonstrated confidence in Hegseth by prominently including him in the day’s events.
Hegseth, along with fellow veterans such as Congressman Mike Waltz, Trump’s pick for National Security Advisor, and Tulsi Gabbard, his choice for Director of National Intelligence, joined the festivities. The trio posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) expressing their allegiance to the Army while playfully ribbing the Navy.
Diversity Policies in the Crosshairs
Trump’s administration is expected to revisit military leadership and policies, particularly those tied to diversity and inclusion. The current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General CQ Brown, may face uncertainty under the new administration. Trump and Hegseth have criticized diversity initiatives, with Hegseth recently calling for Brown’s resignation during a podcast appearance.
Brown, a historic figure as only the second Black officer to serve as Chairman, has been a vocal advocate for equity in the military, making his potential removal a contentious topic.
Congressional Connections on Display
The Army-Navy game also provided an opportunity for Trump to engage with congressional leaders. House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and newly elected Pennsylvania Senator David McCormick joined Trump in discussions about advancing his legislative agenda. Johnson, who was seen speaking with Trump before kickoff, indicated plans to push for a robust legislative package in the coming year, leveraging the Republican majority in both chambers of Congress.
Daniel Penny’s High-Profile Attendance
Among the notable guests was Daniel Penny, whose presence symbolized a broader cultural and political debate. Penny had recently been acquitted in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man who died during a confrontation on a New York City subway.
JD Vance, who invited Penny, framed his attendance as a statement against perceived prosecutorial overreach. “Daniel is a great guy, and the New York DA tried to ruin his life for having a spine,” Vance said in a post on X. “I’m grateful he accepted my invitation, and I hope he enjoys seeing how much his fellow Americans admire his courage.”
Trump’s Momentum Builds Ahead of Inauguration
The Army-Navy game was more than just a sports event for Trump. It served as a stage to rally his supporters, showcase his emerging team, and solidify alliances that will be critical in advancing his agenda once in office.
As Trump continues to finalize his Cabinet and legislative strategy, appearances like this reflect a growing momentum as he prepares to assume the presidency for a second time.
