Democrats Take to the Skies to Mock Trump at College Football Game
In a bold and cheeky move, Georgia Democrats took to the skies this past Saturday, flying a banner over Sanford Stadium during the highly anticipated college football game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Auburn Tigers. The banner, which read "Trump: 1 debate loss, 0 SEC championships," was a playful jab at former President Donald Trump, who recently participated in a presidential debate against Vice President Kamala Harris.
The stunt was reported by Greg Bluestein, a political reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, who shared updates from the game on social media. As the Bulldogs triumphed over the Tigers with a score of 31-13, the banner served as a reminder of the political landscape heating up as the 2024 election approaches.
Trump and Harris faced off in what many believe could be their only presidential debate on September 10. While Trump has claimed victory in the ABC-moderated event, snap polls and viewer surveys suggest that Harris may have come out on top. The playful banner was a way for Democrats to capitalize on this narrative, especially as the election season ramps up.
In the wake of the debate, Harris expressed her willingness to participate in another debate, scheduled for October 23, hosted by CNN. However, Trump dismissed the idea, stating during a rally in Wilmington, North Carolina, that it was "too late" for another debate, given that early voting had already begun in some states. "She’s done one debate, I’ve done two. It’s too late to do another," Trump remarked, emphasizing that voters were already casting their ballots.
The banner stunt is part of a broader strategy by the Democratic National Committee (DNC), which has sponsored similar displays at various college football games targeting Trump and his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance. These banners have included messages linking the pair to "Project 2025," a set of policy proposals aimed at overhauling the U.S. government under a future conservative administration.
One notable banner flew over Camp Randall Stadium at the University of Wisconsin, proclaiming, "Jump Around! Beat Trump + Project 2025," referencing the popular song played at Badgers games. Another banner aimed at Vance read, "Michigan: JD Vance." These messages are designed to resonate with football fans while reminding them of the upcoming election.
DNC deputy communications director Abhi Rahman commented on the effectiveness of these banners, stating, "These banners carry a message that resonates with fans, and reminds them that the most important contest is still to come in November." He emphasized the stark contrast between the candidates and the importance of driving towards a more equitable America.
Interestingly, Harris’ campaign also attempted to fly a banner over Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on September 28, with the message "Trump’s Punting on 2nd Debate." However, due to weather concerns, the plane was not cleared to fly, leaving the banner grounded while Trump watched the game.
As the political climate continues to heat up, it’s clear that both parties are using every tool at their disposal—whether on the ground or in the sky—to engage voters and shape the narrative leading into the 2024 election. With college football serving as a backdrop, the intersection of sports and politics is proving to be a lively arena for both sides.
