The hypocrisy is insane.
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ upcoming White House visit is drawing criticism from some sports media figures, reigniting debate over whether championship teams should celebrate with President Donald Trump.
Longtime Los Angeles Times columnist Bill Plaschke argued that the Dodgers’ decision to accept the invitation is “tone deaf” and out of step with many of the team’s supporters.
The White House has long invited championship teams from professional sports to celebrate their accomplishments. While the tradition has existed under presidents of both parties, it has become increasingly controversial in recent years as politics and sports continue to intersect.
Dodgers Face Criticism Over White House Visit
In his column, Plaschke questioned why the Dodgers would choose to visit the White House at a time when immigration policies remain a deeply divisive issue in Los Angeles.
He wrote:
“…why in the hell do they insist on embracing the person trying to tear this city apart?”
Plaschke also pointed to several championship teams that declined White House invitations during President Trump’s previous administration, including the 2017 Golden State Warriors, the 2018 Philadelphia Eagles, and the 2025 Oklahoma City Thunder.
He questioned why the Dodgers would attend after those organizations chose not to.
Immigration Debate Becomes Part of the Conversation
A central theme of Plaschke’s criticism focused on immigration enforcement.
He argued that recent ICE operations have affected many members of the Dodgers’ fan base and suggested the organization should have taken a stronger public position before agreeing to visit Washington.
The columnist also rejected the Dodgers’ explanation that accepting a White House invitation is intended to recognize a championship season rather than endorse the president’s political agenda.
Jackie Robinson Comparison Sparks Reaction
One of the most discussed portions of Plaschke’s column referenced Dodgers icon Jackie Robinson.
Plaschke argued that the Dodgers cannot honor Jackie Robinson’s legacy and then publicly participate in a White House event with President Trump.
That comparison quickly generated discussion among sports fans and political commentators.
Supporters of the White House visit argue that championship celebrations have historically recognized athletic achievement regardless of which political party controls the presidency. They contend that attending the event does not necessarily represent agreement with every policy of the current administration.
Sports and Politics Continue to Collide
Plaschke also criticized what he viewed as inconsistencies in the Dodgers’ public messaging, arguing that the organization has taken visible positions on other social issues while remaining willing to participate in a White House celebration.
As his column concluded, he urged the Dodgers to reconsider the trip, saying it was “not too late” to change course.
He ultimately argued that the team would damage its reputation by attending the event despite winning another championship.
A Growing Divide Over a Longstanding Tradition
The controversy highlights how a tradition that once generated little debate has become another flashpoint in America’s broader political conversation.
Some fans believe championship teams should avoid White House visits when they disagree with a president’s policies. Others argue the invitation honors athletic excellence and the office of the presidency rather than serving as a political endorsement.
As the Dodgers prepare for their visit, the discussion underscores how professional sports continue to find themselves at the center of national political debates.
