The owner of the Kansas City Chiefs said he doesn’t have any issues with his player’s political involvements after kicker Harrison Butker announced the formation of a political action committee that seeks to ‘reclaim the traditional values’ of the United States.
The Chiefs kicker announced the creation of Upright PAC on social media on Saturday ‘as a way to promote and encourage Christian voters to vote.’ In the announcement, Butker also endorsed Sen. Josh Hawley for re-election to his Senate seat in Missouri.
On Wednesday, team chairman Clark Hunt spoke with the media and was asked about Butker’s involvement.
‘One of the things I talk to the players every year about at training camp is using their platform to make a difference. ‘Obviously, we have players on both sides of the political spectrum, both sides of whatever controversial issue you want to bring up,’ he said. ‘I’m not at all concerned when our players use their platform to make a difference for what they believe in.’
The Upright PAC website has a picture of the kicker and reads ‘join Harrison Butker and countless others.’ Also shown is an image of Butker and Hawley.
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‘We’re seeing our values under attack every day. In our schools, in the media, and even from our own government,’ it reads. ‘But we have a chance to fight back and reclaim the traditional values that have made this country great.’
The two-time defending Super Bowl champions have become the center of the political stances in the NFL this year. In May, Butker gave a commencement speech at Benedictine College and spoke out against Pride Month, transgender people and the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the most notable comments he made was about the role of women in society.
‘I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolic lies told to you,’ Butker said. ‘Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world.’
Butker’s comments caused a stir within the organization, with teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce publicly disagreeing with the kickers comments, but would only judge him based on the relationship they have with him. Head coach Andy Reid said everyone on the team ‘respect each other’s opinions.’ The NFL distanced itself from Butker’s comments.
Then in September, pop icon and girlfriend of Kelce, Taylor Swift, announced her endorsement of Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election. After Swift’s endorsement, former President Donald Trump said he likes Brittany Mahomes, wife of the Chiefs quarterback, more than Swift. After Trump’s comments, the three-time Super Bowl MVP brushed off the remarks and said he wouldn’t endorse any presidential candidate, citing his responsibility is to inform people on how to register to vote.
