Democratic Candidates Refuse to Pick America in World Cup Question

Clear Facts

• Two Democratic candidates for Secretary of State in Minnesota were asked which team they’re rooting for in the World Cup during a recent interview
• Neither candidate chose the United States men’s national team as their answer
• The exchange occurred during a forum focused on the Secretary of State race in Minnesota

A striking moment unfolded during a recent candidate forum when two Democrats vying for Minnesota Secretary of State were asked a straightforward question about the World Cup. Their responses — or lack thereof — speak volumes about priorities in today’s Democratic Party.

When the interviewer posed the simple question, “What do you think will win it all?” in reference to the World Cup, both candidates gave answers that notably excluded the United States. The question seemed designed to be light-hearted, an easy opportunity to express support for the home team.

Instead, the candidates chose to name other countries competing in the tournament. The moment highlights a broader pattern among progressive politicians who often appear reluctant to express straightforward patriotic sentiment, even in casual settings where such expressions would be natural and expected.

This isn’t an isolated incident. Conservative observers have long noted a tendency among some on the left to emphasize global citizenship over national identity. In this case, a simple sports question became another data point in that ongoing conversation.

For many Americans, supporting the national team in international competition is instinctive — a basic expression of national pride that transcends politics. The fact that two candidates seeking statewide office couldn’t bring themselves to make that simple statement raises questions about their comfort level with traditional expressions of patriotism.

The Secretary of State position, while focused on election administration and state records, still represents the state and nation. Voters have every right to consider whether candidates share their values, including the simple act of rooting for America in international competition.

Minnesota has a long tradition of producing strong supporters of American interests, from both parties. These candidates’ responses suggest they may be out of step with that tradition, prioritizing what they perceive as sophisticated internationalism over straightforward national loyalty.

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