Amid an offseason filled with lingering questions, the Pittsburgh Steelers recently found themselves forced to issue a public statement following President Donald Trump’s rally in the city. The reason? Quarterback Mason Rudolph, expected to start for the team this season, appeared on stage alongside Trump last Friday, May 29, sparking mixed reactions among fans.
Facing mounting pressure from the fanbase, the organization released a letter addressing the situation. In it, the franchise reaffirmed its neutral stance, as expected from an NFL team, and distanced itself from the political controversy unfolding across social media.
Steelers Respond To Mason Rudolph’s Attendance at Trump Rally
The country’s current political climate inevitably sparks controversy whenever celebrities or athletes take a public stance, and most recently, it was Rudolph who drew attention. And contrary to what many expected earlier in the offseason, that quarterback is not Aaron Rodgers — at least not yet.
Rudolph attended President Trump’s rally, triggering a wave of online reactions. While some praised the quarterback for taking a political stand, others criticized his appearance given recent actions by the former president, arguing it was an inappropriate level of visibility for someone who, in theory, represents the franchise.
Steelers QB Mason Rudolph is now on stage at the Trump rally pic.twitter.com/vDYXzMtGU1
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 30, 2025
Facing growing demands for a response, the Steelers issued a letter to fans clarifying that Rudolph’s views do not reflect the political stance of the organization and that players are free to express themselves however they see fit.
“We understand that a recent rally in Pittsburgh has generated a range of reactions from our fan base,” the organization said. “Our alumni and current players make their own individual decisions that reflect their views, and they do not necessarily represent the view of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your passion and your continued support of the team.”
While the Rooney family has long been known for its support of the Democratic Party, the Steelers’ stance on the Rudolph situation is exactly what’s expected of an NFL franchise. Players, as individuals, are free to express their views however they wish, but the organization remaining neutral is the best way to avoid sparking internal conflict among its own fanbase.
As an institution, the Steelers’ focus now shifts fully to football. The team still hasn’t settled its quarterback situation. While Rudolph remains the frontrunner, the looming possibility of Rodgers joining keeps hopes alive for a 2025 season with higher aspirations.
The Steelers officially kick off their season on Sunday, Sept. 7, against the New York Jets, a matchup that will see them face former Pittsburgh quarterback Justin Fields on the road. A slow start is the last thing this franchise needs, especially given how competitive the division is shaping up to be — regardless of whether it’s Rudolph, Rodgers, or someone else leading the offense.
