Trump rips CBS, ESPN over decision not to broadcast national anthem

President Trump ripped CBS and ESPN on Friday for deciding not to broadcast the playing of the national anthem before NFL games.
“We’re standing proudly for our great, beautiful, wonderful national anthem, which CBS, I just heard they joined the crew, and ESPN have decided not to broadcast so they don’t have any controversy. Can you imagine that?” Trump said at Ohio’s state Republican Party dinner. “They’re not going to broadcast the national anthem CBS and ESPN, how do we like that, is that good?”
“So that’s CBS and ESPN folks, enjoy your television,” he said sarcastically.{mosads}
Trump’s remarks come two days after Trump launched a petition to force ESPN to air the anthem.
“I’m calling on you to join me in denouncing this SPINELESS surrender to the politically correct liberal mob,” Trump’s petition reads. “I was the first person to sign this petition. Now I need you to follow my lead and be the second.”
Trump has repeatedly criticized NFL players for kneeling during the national anthem as a demonstration against systemic racism and police brutality toward black people.
“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, ‘Get that son of a bitch off the field right now. Out! He’s fired. He’s fired!’ ” he said at a rally last fall.
Trump renewed those attacks earlier this month, writing on Twitter, “A football game, that fans are paying soooo much money to watch and enjoy, is no place to protest. Most of that money goes to the players anyway. Find another way to protest. Stand proudly for your National Anthem or be Suspended Without Pay!”
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