Dodgers Superstar Regrets Trump White House Decision After Political Backlash - Forbes

What the report says

Forbes reported that Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts is again facing scrutiny over whether to take part in a White House celebration with President Donald Trump after the team’s World Series success. The article, published July 23, 2026, said the Dodgers used an off day for a championship visit, a tradition for major U.S. sports teams that has become more politically charged in recent years.

According to Forbes, Betts told The Orange County Register’s Bill Plunkett that his previous decision to attend a White House event still bothered him because he felt it was not a choice made for himself and because any decision would disappoint part of the public. Addressing those upset by his decision to skip the latest planned visit, Betts offered a brief apology and acknowledged that some people would be angered regardless.

Forbes noted that Betts’ approach has changed over time. He skipped the Boston Red Sox’s 2019 visit after their 2018 championship, attended the Dodgers’ 2021 event with President Joe Biden after the 2020 title, and later joined a Dodgers visit connected to their 2024 championship. Betts has said his latest absence was about spending time with family, not making a political statement.

The matter matters beyond baseball because the Dodgers have a large Los Angeles fan base in a politically divided environment. Forbes cited commentary from the Los Angeles Times criticizing the team’s engagement with Trump, underscoring how championship ceremonies can place athletes and franchises in the center of national political debates.