The race for a new Commanders stadium is as much about politics as it is about sports. Mike Florio’s bold prediction introduces a new layer of complexity — one that blends presidential politics with NFL power dynamics
The Washington Commanders’ stadium proposal has become far more than a sports story—it’s now a symbol of how politics, economics, and entertainment intersect in 21st-century America.
Mike Florio’s suggestion to bring Donald Trump into the equation may seem outlandish, but in a political climate where gridlock is the norm, unconventional ideas tend to get attention.
Whether Trump ultimately plays a role or not, the next steps for the Commanders will require delicate navigation of federal, local, and league-level interests.
One thing is certain: the road to a new stadium will be as dramatic as any game played on the field.
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Table of Contents
Mike Florio: The Commanders’ Stadium Saga
The Washington Commanders have made headlines yet again, not for their performance on the field but for what may be their most ambitious off-field plan—constructing a state-of-the-art, $3.8 billion domed stadium on the historic grounds of RFK Stadium.1
What initially seemed like a straightforward vision to reinvigorate a sports landmark has quickly evolved into a politically charged battleground, riddled with bureaucratic delays and partisan debates.
As the District of Columbia weighs its options, complications around funding, land rights, and political resistance continue to mount.
Yet, NFL analyst Mike Florio has thrown an unexpected curveball into the debate: enlisting the help of former President Donald Trump to move the project forward.
The RFK Site: Nostalgia Meets Modern Ambition
For decades, RFK Stadium served as the heart of D.C. football culture. Though now obsolete and facing demolition, the site remains symbolic for Commanders fans longing for a return to the city limits.
The team’s recent relocation efforts have focused heavily on redeveloping RFK into a cutting-edge sports and entertainment complex—a proposal that seeks to blend modern NFL grandeur with a nod to Washington’s rich football past.
The catch? The federal government owns the land, and Congressional approval would be required for any commercial redevelopment to occur.
Muriel Bowser and the Political Roadblocks
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has long supported the Commanders’ return to RFK but is now voicing concern. Her apprehension isn’t about the project’s feasibility—it’s about the politics surrounding it.
With the city also entangled in debates over Capital One Arena funding, Bowser warned of “big political fights” that could delay or derail the stadium initiative entirely.
Bowser and her allies are pushing for legislation that would allow the city to control the land around RFK, potentially paving the way for construction.
But with Congressional dynamics shifting regularly, especially in an election year, even the mayor acknowledges the difficulty of moving the plan forward without broader bipartisan support.
Mike Florio’s Wildcard: Trump-Powered “Plan B”
Enter Mike Florio. The NBC Sports analyst raised eyebrows when he reported that D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson had alluded to a “Plan B” for the Commanders—a scenario that might involve reaching out to Donald Trump and Republican Congressional leaders to fast-track stadium approval.2
According to Florio, such a move could help team owner Josh Harris bypass local political resistance by appealing directly to national figures, especially within the GOP.
He argued that Trump’s recent efforts to reassert political dominance could make him a valuable ally for business initiatives tied to jobs, patriotism, and legacy infrastructure projects.
Trump and the NFL: A Complicated History
The idea of Trump aiding an NFL team might sound far-fetched considering his rocky relationship with the league.
Trump has often criticized the NFL, particularly during the player protests against racial injustice, and has repeatedly expressed disdain for what he perceives as the league’s left-leaning culture.
Yet Florio speculates that Trump’s willingness to be involved might stem from a desire to rebrand himself as a pro-business unifier ahead of the 2024 election.
By supporting a stadium plan that promises job creation, economic development, and national exposure, Trump could attempt to rehabilitate his image among moderate voters while delivering a win for the Republican Party in D.C.—a traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Mike Florio: Congressional Leverage and Legislative Hurdles
The federal government, through the National Park Service, still owns the land RFK sits on.3
For any commercial construction—including a football stadium—to occur, Congress must pass legislation allowing the city to use the land for non-park purposes. This is where political maneuvering becomes essential.
Florio theorized that if Trump could rally enough Republican lawmakers to push through such legislation, it would be a game-changer for the Commanders.
Still, the idea raises ethical and legal questions, especially if it’s tied to political favor or backroom deals.
NFL Interests: The 2027 Draft as a Bargaining Chip
Florio also floated the intriguing possibility that the NFL could use its own interests to sweeten the deal. One idea would be to host the 2027 NFL Draft on the National Mall—one of the most iconic venues in the United States.
Doing so would not only promote tourism and generate buzz for the new stadium but could also serve as a symbolic olive branch between the league and Republican lawmakers, particularly if Trump helps orchestrate the effort.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has already shown an interest in expanding the league’s visibility with high-profile international games and marquee domestic events.
Partnering with Trump or key members of Congress, while controversial, could theoretically align with those goals—if the league is willing to weather the inevitable backlash.
Local Resistance and Community Concerns
- New Commanders owner Josh Harris inherited a fractured franchise. Since purchasing the team from Dan Snyder, Harris has made clear his ambition to usher in a new era—on and off the field.
- Building a stadium in D.C. would be the crown jewel of his tenure, cementing his legacy as the owner who restored the Commanders to national prominence.
- But Harris is also a businessman first. If politics obstruct the most viable option, he may be compelled to explore alternatives, even if it means involving divisive figures like Trump to accomplish his goals.
- It’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble that could either revive the team’s fortunes or ignite political firestorms.
- Many D.C. residents remain skeptical, if not outright opposed, to the idea of involving Trump in local decision-making.
- Beyond political ideology, some worry that fast-tracking the stadium through federal intervention would override the community’s voice and exacerbate gentrification, displacement, and noise pollution in the area.
- Grassroots organizations have called for public consultation, environmental assessments, and a clearer commitment to neighborhood investment before any deal is made.
- The optics of going around local authorities to gain favor with national power brokers could backfire spectacularly if not managed carefully.
Other Stadium Sites: Virginia and Maryland Still in Play
While RFK is the sentimental favorite, the Commanders have options. Both Maryland and Virginia have expressed interest in hosting the team’s future stadium, offering a mix of public-private partnerships, land access, and lower regulatory hurdles.
Each state comes with its own pros and cons. Maryland, already home to FedEx Field, offers familiarity but lacks the prestige of a downtown D.C. address. Virginia presents a clean slate but would face transportation challenges and regional rivalries.
If the D.C. plan falters completely, Harris may have no choice but to revisit these backup locations—though they lack the emotional and symbolic resonance of RFK.
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Mike Florio’s Political Strategy Over Local Government
Mike Florio, the founder of ProFootballTalk, floated a scenario that sounds like something out of a political thriller.
He proposed that if the D.C. Council fails to approve the stadium project, Josh Harris could pivot to a broader political strategy.
That includes potentially leveraging a relationship with Donald Trump — if the former president is re-elected in November — to push for federal involvement or influence over local jurisdictions.
Florio emphasized that such a move would not be without precedent. Stadiums and sports franchises have often used political clout to secure public funding or land deals.
While involving the U.S. President might sound like a stretch, Harris’s deep connections in the financial and political world make it a real possibility.
A $1 Billion Price Tag for Taxpayers?
One of the most controversial aspects of the new stadium proposal is its funding. Reports indicate that up to $1 billion could come from public funds — in other words, D.C. taxpayers.
This figure has generated considerable backlash from critics who argue that public money should not fund facilities for privately owned sports franchises.
Proponents of the stadium argue that the economic boost from construction jobs, increased tourism, and long-term infrastructure benefits would offset the public investment.
However, many economists remain skeptical about the return on investment when cities foot the bill for sports arenas.
Mike Florio: Commanders’ On-Field Success Could Aid the Push
Timing may work in Harris’s favor. The Commanders reached the NFC Championship Game last season, a significant milestone that reinvigorated the fan base and gave the franchise credibility it hasn’t seen in over a decade.
With promising second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the team, Washington is aiming for a Super Bowl appearance.
If the team remains competitive in the 2025 season, the public and political will to reward success with a state-of-the-art stadium could increase.
Successful franchises tend to draw larger crowds, create more jobs, and boost local economies — all of which are strong arguments in favor of stadium investment.
The Ethical Dilemma of Political Influence in Sports
Florio’s suggestion, while intriguing, also raises ethical questions. Should a U.S. President be involved in local stadium negotiations? Would federal influence compromise the autonomy of local governments like the D.C. Council?
Critics argue that such maneuvers reflect the ongoing problem of billionaires using political connections to gain advantages not available to the average citizen or business.
The optics of a president pushing for taxpayer funding of a sports arena while other pressing issues—like healthcare, education, and infrastructure—remain underfunded could be politically damaging, regardless of the party in power.
What Happens If the Stadium Deal Falls Through?
If the D.C. Council declines the proposal, Harris and the Commanders could explore alternative sites. Northern Virginia and Prince George’s County, Maryland, have both been mentioned as potential backup options.
However, moving out of D.C. would likely alienate parts of the team’s long-standing fan base, which has deep roots in the city.
Additionally, starting from scratch on negotiations with a new jurisdiction would push the project back several years, possibly eliminating the possibility of opening the new stadium by 2030.
Public Opinion: Split and Passionate
- Polls among D.C. residents reveal a split in opinion. Some fans are excited at the idea of a world-class stadium bringing new energy and jobs to the city.
- Others are wary of a billion-dollar commitment from taxpayers, especially at a time when housing costs and urban inequality continue to rise.
- Community forums and public hearings in recent weeks have been filled with passionate arguments on both sides.
- The ultimate decision by the D.C. Council will need to reflect not only economic logic but also political and social responsibility.
- The Commanders’ situation is part of a broader trend in the NFL, where franchises push for state-of-the-art stadiums—often funded by public dollars.
- Recent examples include Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. In both cases, public subsidies played a key role.
- Critics argue this represents a form of corporate welfare, while supporters claim it’s a smart investment that pays off over time.
- Either way, Florio’s suggestion of leveraging Trump’s influence may be an early glimpse at a strategy other owners could consider if political tides turn in their favor.
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