Government & Politics

Does Trump know the national anthem? Debate rages after football title game

President Donald Trump was mocked by some online who said it appeared he forgot the words to the national anthem.

Trump attended the College Football National Championship Game on Monday. His appearance was met with a chorus of cheers and boos.

Protesters waved white towels in the stands — the color chosen to mock how liberals are often called “snowflakes,” the Washington Post reported. Another protest was held at the nearby CNN headquarters.

Trump stood on the field for the Star-Spangled Banner. And as it began, Trump sang along as his hand rested over his heart.

But as the song progressed, Trump is seen without his lips moving in unison to the lyrics — and sometimes not at all, according to some on Twitter.

Watch the video for yourself above.

Many people lampooned Trump on Twitter.

“Disgraceful for any president, but particularly bad given his months of race-baiting rants against NFL players kneeling to demand justice,” wrote one person.

Several people mentioned it appeared that Trump was saying “applesauce” instead of the lyrics to the anthem.

But others defended the president.

“Trump does what the #nfl doesn’t: Stand for the #NationalAnthem,” wrote one person.

Max Londberg: 816-234-4378, @MaxLondberg

This story was originally published January 9, 2018 at 8:10 AM with the headline "Does Trump know the national anthem? Debate rages after football title game."

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