Trump Promises Executive Order to Shield Army-Navy Game from Rival Broadcasts
President Donald Trump has announced plans to sign an executive order designed to protect the Army-Navy Game from competing broadcasts. This event, which emphasizes American values such as patriotism and honor, is set to receive special attention to prevent its overshadowing by college playoff games.
Importance of the Army-Navy Game
The Army-Navy Game is considered one of the most cherished traditions in American sports, first played in 1890. This annual matchup features the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen, showcasing the rivalry between the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy.
The Executive Order Announcement
Trump took to Truth Social to express his commitment to protect the game. “Under my Administration, the second Saturday in December belongs to Army-Navy, and ONLY Army-Navy,” he stated. The executive order aims to secure an exclusive four-hour broadcast window for this iconic game, ensuring that it stands out against other commercial postseason events.
- Date of Executive Order: Pending signing
- Exclusive Broadcast Rights: CBS holds the rights until 2038
- Broadcast Window: Four hours designated for Army-Navy
Potential Implications
While the order aims to benefit CBS, it remains unclear how Trump’s initiative can be enforced. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates broadcast television but does not govern cable or streaming services. Furthermore, NFL broadcasts fall under antitrust legislation enacted by Congress.
Broader Context
This move reflects Trump’s ongoing involvement in media and broadcasting matters. Throughout his presidency, he has frequently commented on television licensing and media agreements, perceiving them to be issues of public interest. In a recent Army-Navy game held in Baltimore, which ended in a narrow 17-16 victory for the Navy, Trump participated in ceremonial activities, marking his sixth attendance at this storied event.
In conclusion, the announced executive order seeks to safeguard the Army-Navy Game’s status in the college football landscape, highlighting the significance of this event to American culture. As the situation develops, both the FCC and CBS have yet to provide comments, leaving questions about the order’s enforceability and its potential effects on college football broadcasting.
