U.S. President Donald Trump has stepped up the pressure on the National Football League over protests by its players during the national anthem by launching a petition and asking his supporters to show their patriotism by backing it.
The move came after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell this week rejected Trump’s calls to punish players who kneel during the anthem. Trump has said the protests are unpatriotic and disrespectful of military veterans.
“The President has asked for a list of supporters who stand for the National Anthem. Add your name below to show your patriotism and support,” said the petition issued on Thursday by the Trump Make America Great Again Committee, a fundraising organization for Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.
