The relationship between MAGA (Make America Great Again) supporters and NFL viewership is complex and multifaceted. While there isn’t a simple yes or no answer, we can examine several aspects of this relationship based on recent events and data.
Despite political controversies and expressions, NFL viewership has remained strong. The 2023 NFL season averaged 17.9 million viewers, up 7% from the previous year and tied for the second-highest since averages were first tracked in 1995. The 2024 season, as of early January 2025, was averaging 17.5 million viewers per game, only slightly down (2.2%) from the previous year’s record numbers.
These figures suggest that political affiliations, including MAGA support, have not significantly impacted overall NFL viewership.
Despite controversies, the NFL remains a popular form of entertainment across political divides. The league’s broad appeal and strong viewership suggest that it continues to attract a diverse audience, including those who align with the MAGA movement.
The NFL remains incredibly popular, solidifying its position as the dominant force in American sports and entertainment.
Several current and former NFL players have publicly supported Donald Trump, indicating a connection between MAGA and the NFL. Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers wore a “Make America Great Again” hat during a postgame interview in October 2024, clearly showing his support for Trump. Other players like Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell have attended Trump rallies and shown support for his campaign.
The NFL has strict policies against displaying personal messages, including political ones, during games and interviews. Players and coaches may talk politics on their own private time.
Is the NFL liberal?
The NFL has taken some actions that could be viewed as politically liberal such as 1) launching the “NFL Votes” initiative to encourage civic engagement and voting, 2) supporting LGBTQ+ causes through campaigns like “Football is Gay,” and 3) allowing players to express themselves on social justice issues, such as kneeling during the national anthem.

The league also promotes social justice calls to action via commercials and stadium messaging, For example, the “End Racism” text displayed behind the end zones is a powerful call to action that should resonate with everyone, regardless of political affiliation. While some conservatives may perceive it as unnecessary, it’s crucial to recognize that promoting equality and understanding is a universal goal that benefits society as a whole.
So, the NFL leans liberal?
While the league has taken some actions that could be perceived as liberal-leaning, its fan base and ownership may tend to skew slightly more conservative overall; although NFL fans are still the most politically diverse among major American sports leagues.
A survey found that NFL fans’ political leanings generally reflect the political makeup of their region, which isn’t surprising.
NFL team owners tend to lean Republican in their political donations and affiliations. During the 2023-24 election cycle, about 83% of political donations from NFL owners went to conservative candidates and causes. And in the 2020 election cycle, NFL owners gave nearly 9-to-1 to Republicans over Democrats.
So, while the NFL has taken some progressive stances on social issues in recent years, its ownership leans conservative and the fans are a mixed bag. The league attempts to balance these competing interests, often resulting in a mixed political image. Ultimately, the NFL’s primary focus remains on football rather than partisan politics, as it seeks to appeal to a broad, politically diverse audience.
The NFL remains incredibly popular, solidifying its position as the dominant force in American sports and entertainment.