Johnny Damon Defends Trump Support, Cites Concerns for Children’s Future
Two-time World Series champion Johnny Damon, a celebrated figure in baseball history known for his stints with the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for former President Donald Trump, dismissing potential backlash and citing concerns for the future safety and well-being of his eight children. Damon’s comments, delivered during an appearance on OutKick’s "The Ricky Cobb Show," shed light on his long-standing relationship with Trump and his rationale for publicly aligning himself with the controversial political figure.
Damon recounted the genesis of his connection with Trump, emphasizing that it predated the latter’s foray into the realm of presidential politics. He highlighted their interactions as occurring during Trump’s tenure as a prominent businessman and real estate mogul, suggesting a foundation of shared values or common ground that transcended partisan affiliations.
When questioned about potential negative reactions from fans or the public stemming from his support for Trump, Damon displayed a resolute and unfazed demeanor. He asserted that he was "not too concerned about it because I know what’s right," indicating a deep-seated conviction in the correctness of his stance. He further elaborated on his principles, articulating a firm stance against illegal immigration, particularly when it involves individuals with criminal records. "I know illegal immigrants who are criminals should not be in our country," Damon stated, reflecting a common conservative viewpoint on border security and immigration enforcement.
Damon also voiced his support for Trump’s economic policies, particularly his implementation of tariffs, framing them as a necessary measure to ensure a "fair playing field" in international trade. This perspective aligns with Trump’s "America First" approach, which prioritized domestic industries and sought to renegotiate trade agreements perceived as unfavorable to the United States.
Damon delved into his historical concerns regarding financial aid to Ukraine, revealing that he had questioned the potential for repayment years ago. "I mentioned to my friends years ago, I was like, ‘Is Ukraine ever going to pay us back? I mean we’re giving them so much money’ and everybody kinda said, ‘Yeah, I don’t know how that works out,’" Damon recounted. He then drew a connection to Trump’s foreign policy efforts, suggesting that the former president’s attempts to foster peace between Russia and Ukraine demonstrated a proactive approach to resolving international conflicts. "Well, as we see on the world stage right now, President Trump is trying to make peace with Russia and Ukraine … and there’s a lot of war going on that nobody ever wants to have," he added.
The crux of Damon’s defense of his Trump support centered on his deep-seated concern for the future of his children. "So, I may catch grief but I’m not too concerned about it," he said. "I’m a 51-year-old man with eight kids. I worry about my kids’ future. I want to make sure they live in a world that’s safe." This paternal motivation underscores the personal nature of his political alignment, suggesting that his support for Trump is rooted in a desire to secure a better future for the next generation.
Damon acknowledged the existence of diverse viewpoints among his social circle, stating that he has "a lot of friends on the right, a lot of friends on the left," but claimed that many of them "agree with Trump’s policies." He attributed any hesitation or reluctance to fully embrace Trump’s leadership to his perceived "strong" or authoritarian style, suggesting that some individuals may find his approach to be abrasive or unconventional. However, Damon defended Trump’s leadership style, arguing that "our country needed something like that," implying a belief that strong leadership is necessary to address the nation’s challenges.
Damon’s endorsement of Trump dates back to the 2016 presidential election, demonstrating a consistent and long-standing commitment to the Republican figurehead. Further solidifying their relationship, Trump appointed Damon to serve on the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition in 2020. This appointment placed Damon alongside other prominent figures in the sports world, including fellow Yankees World Series champion Mariano Rivera, former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer, UFC fighter Colby Covington, and Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Vincent. The council serves as an advisory body to the President, providing recommendations and guidance on matters related to physical activity, health, and nutrition.
Damon’s steadfast support for Trump, despite potential social or professional repercussions, highlights the complexities of political alignment in the public sphere. His rationale, grounded in concerns for his children’s future and a belief in Trump’s policies, provides insight into the motivations behind his decision to publicly endorse a controversial figure. The former baseball star’s stance underscores the enduring influence of Trump’s political message and the deep divisions that continue to characterize the American political landscape. His willingness to stand by his convictions, regardless of potential criticism, cements his status as a prominent and outspoken voice in the ongoing political discourse.
