GOP hopes to cash in on NFL anthem protest drama

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SportsPulse: USA TODAY Sports’ NFL insider Lindsay H. Jones explains why NFL ratings were up in Week 3 despite President Trump’s open criticism of players kneeling for the national anthem.
USA TODAY Sports

While many Americans may not like President Trump’s aggressive comments about NFL players taking a knee during the national anthem, the issue has his base fired up and Republicans are hoping to cash in on the fervor. 

Republicans sent out fundraising emails Tuesday using the player protests to try and drive campaign contributions.

The Republican National Committee sent out at least two emails from “Team Trump” with a link reading “Yes, I stand with President Trump.”

More: NFL sponsors offering measured (or no) reaction to national anthem protests

Related: DirecTV offering refunds to customers who want to cancel over NFL anthem protests

“When the national anthem plays, President Trump proudly stands and places his hand over his heart out of respect for our flag, our country, and our heroes,” reads the first email.  

“President Trump is under fire from the media for saying he’s honored to stand for the national anthem,” reads the other. 

The link connects to survey asking, “Do you stand with President Trump for our flag, our country, and our heroes?” Whatever your answer, you are then taken to a page which says, “We must honor our heroes, this country, and everything we stand for. Take the next step and stand with President Trump by making a contribution today. “ 

Corey Stewart, who is vying to be the GOP candidate to challenge Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., in 2018, went a step further and called for supporters to sign an “If they kneel, we boycott” petition. 

“Is it time for real Americans to boycott the NFL, its owners, players and the leftist media who endlessly push their insulting, divisive, identity politics attacks on our traditions and honor?” Stewart asks. “The NFL is enabling the divisive, anti-American temper tantrums thrown by grown men who get paid to play a childhood game.” 

Stewart then suggests those who agree with him contribute to his campaign. 

More: Donald Trump calls for NFL to create rule mandating players stand for national anthem

Related: Anthem kneeling isn’t aimed at veterans, and other NFL protest misconceptions

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Philadelphia Eagles strong safety Malcolm Jenkins, center, raises his fist as he stands between teammates Chris Long, left, and Rodney McLeod during a rendition of the national anthem before a against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Landover, Md. 
Alex Brandon, AP

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