Ravens’ John Harbaugh Reflects on White House Visit With Trump, Says: ‘I Root for Our President—Always Have, Always Will’

When the Baltimore Ravens visited the White House after their Super Bowl XLVII victory in 2013, the moment carried more than ceremonial weight for head coach John Harbaugh. Amid national division and political polarization, Harbaugh made headlines for a sentiment that he later expanded upon: “I root for our president.”

Although former President Donald Trump wasn’t in office at the time—Barack Obama welcomed the team in that instance—Harbaugh’s words, repeated during later public appearances and interviews, resurfaced most vividly in a conversation he had about a more recent White House trip. This time, it was with then-President Trump, and Harbaugh did not shy away from sharing his mindset.

The coach’s posture toward the presidency, regardless of political affiliation, stems from a deeply rooted philosophy on unity, leadership, and the responsibilities of public servants and citizens alike.

A Leader Rooting for Leaders

John Harbaugh, known for his no-nonsense demeanor and team-first mentality, has always placed a premium on leadership—whether in a locker room, in the community, or on a national stage. His comments on rooting for the president weren’t about endorsing a political platform, but about supporting the office itself and what it represents.

In a past interview with The Baltimore Sun, Harbaugh elaborated:

“I always root for our president. That’s something I believe in, and I think it’s part of being a citizen of this country. You want our leaders to succeed—because when they succeed, America succeeds.”

That ethos took center stage when Harbaugh visited the White House during Trump’s presidency. Unlike some NFL teams that chose to decline invitations during that era due to political differences, Harbaugh and several Ravens staffers accepted the opportunity.

His presence sparked both praise and criticism, especially on social media, where optics and ideology often eclipse intent. But Harbaugh stood firm in his conviction.

“It’s Bigger Than Politics”

Harbaugh’s belief in institutional respect reflects his broader outlook on service and civics. “You don’t have to agree with everything a president says or does,” Harbaugh explained during a post-visit press availability. “But you can still respect the position and hope for the best—for the good of the country.”

For a coach who has navigated high-stakes playoff games, roster controversies, and personnel challenges, Harbaugh is familiar with divisive environments. Yet he has long advocated for empathy and collective commitment, principles that resonate on and off the field.

Many of his players echoed similar thoughts, stating that they valued the chance to represent the team at the White House, regardless of personal political beliefs.

Harbaugh’s Players Back His Outlook

Lamar Jackson, Marlon Humphrey, and Justin Tucker are among the players who have spoken positively about Harbaugh’s leadership, especially regarding his open-minded and unifying approach. “Coach never tries to tell us what to think,” said Jackson in a 2023 interview. “He just tells us to think—and to care. That’s what makes him different.”

That inclusivity was evident as the team deliberated their participation in the Trump-era White House visit. Some players opted out, and Harbaugh respected that. Others joined, and Harbaugh made sure their experience was meaningful.

“It’s always voluntary,” Harbaugh noted. “But for those of us who chose to go, we represented not just the Ravens, but a spirit of respect for our institutions.”

Criticism and Clarification

Naturally, Harbaugh’s comment—“I root for our president”—has drawn scrutiny from critics who believe sports figures should refrain from political commentary. But Harbaugh insists his statement was not about politics—it was about patriotism.

“I root for whoever is in the office,” he clarified in 2020. “President Obama, President Trump, President Biden. That doesn’t mean I agree with every decision. It means I’m hoping they succeed at making this country better.”

He compared it to how he roots for his players, even when they make mistakes. “You coach them up, you believe in them, and you hope they deliver.”

Respect Across the League

Harbaugh isn’t alone in this mindset. Coaches like Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs have expressed similar views, emphasizing respect for leadership while remaining neutral on policy matters.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has publicly praised coaches who “model thoughtful civic engagement without deepening division.” Harbaugh fits that mold, often walking a tightrope between conviction and inclusivity.

White House Sports Visits: Still Controversial?

Over the past decade, White House visits by championship teams have become political flashpoints. From the Golden State Warriors skipping the Trump White House, to Tom Brady skipping an Obama-era visit, these events have symbolized broader national divisions.

But Harbaugh sees them as an opportunity for dialogue and dignity.

“We’ve got to talk to each other, not past each other,” he said in 2022. “Whether it’s in the locker room, in Congress, or around the dinner table.”

Football, Not Politics, Remains Harbaugh’s Focus

Despite his views on civic duty, Harbaugh has remained disciplined about keeping politics out of the Ravens’ locker room. Players are free to express themselves, and Harbaugh gives them space to do so—but he doesn’t use his platform for political persuasion.

“My job is to help my players grow as athletes and men,” he said. “That includes encouraging them to vote, be informed, and care about the world they live in—but it doesn’t mean telling them who or what to support.”

His focus remains squarely on football: improving the Ravens’ offensive execution, developing Lamar Jackson’s leadership, and crafting another Super Bowl run.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

With the 2025 NFL season approaching, Harbaugh is once again tasked with shaping one of the league’s most explosive teams. Expectations are high. So is scrutiny.

But Harbaugh’s message remains steady. Whether guiding a rookie through training camp or addressing the nation’s highest office, he believes in mutual respect, shared purpose, and the power of unity.

As he put it best during a recent presser:

“We can disagree on issues. But let’s agree to work together, believe in one another, and try to do what’s right—for the team, for the country, for each other.”

John Harbaugh’s remarks about rooting for the president aren’t about party lines—they’re about a philosophy of respect, unity, and leadership. In an era where everything seems polarized, his grounded and principled stance offers a refreshing reminder: leadership is not about picking sides; it’s about standing firm on values.

Whether on the sidelines or at the White House, Harbaugh’s message resonates: support your leaders, push for excellence, and never lose sight of the greater good.