President Donald Trump’s demand that the Washington Commanders revert to their old name “Redskins” has thrown a wrench into negotiations for a new stadium deal in Washington, D.C. The proposed $1 billion facility would be built on federal property leased by the city, and taxpayers are expected to foot most of the bill.
Progressive activists, including Adam Eidinger, who oppose the stadium, are seeing an opportunity in Trump’s move. “Anything that slows it down is good,” Eidinger said, adding that he thinks the land should be used for housing to address D.C.’s high cost of living.
However, others, such as Christina Henderson and Phil Mendelson, council members pushing for the deal, see Trump’s intervention as a threat and are scrambling to get the stadium plan back on track. “We’re actively in the middle of negotiations,” Henderson said, but added that Trump’s post didn’t change anything.
The deal has already faced skepticism from some council members, who have objected to the use of taxpayer funds for the project. Trump’s potential leverage over the team could lead to litigation and delays if he orders the government to break its lease or uses his appointees to block the stadium.
Despite efforts by Trump to stir up controversy, many fans remain supportive of the old name, but see the need for a new stadium. “There’s a bit of exhaustion,” said Tom Manatos, a lobbyist and Commanders superfan. The future of the deal remains uncertain, with Trump’s actions adding complexity to already contentious negotiations.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2025/07/22/washington-commanders-redskins-donald-trump-dc-stadium-00465914