OPINION:
White House press secretary Jen Psaki says Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban’s attempt to ditch the national anthem was an acknowledgment of U.S. shortcomings.
The White House spokeswoman was asked about the billionaire’s move, which was quickly torpedoed by the league as the news went viral.
“I haven’t spoken with the president about the decision by Mark Cuban or the Dallas Mavericks,” Ms. Psaki said of the plan to omit the national anthem from the Mavericks’ first 13 home games. “I know he’s incredibly proud to be an American, and has great respect for the anthem, and all that represents, especially for our men and women serving in uniform around the world.”
A statement by the league made clear that “all teams will play the national anthem in keeping with longstanding league policy.”
Ms. Psaki told reporters that regardless of President Biden’s personal opinions on the matter, he would also recognize “moments where we as a country haven’t lived up to our highest ideals, which is often, and at times, when people are speaking to when they take action at sporting events.”
.@PressSec is asked about the decision by the Dallas Mavs to stop playing the national anthem:
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) February 10, 2021
President Biden “has great respect for the anthem… He’d also say that pride in our country means recognizing moments when we as a country havn’t lived up to our highest ideals.” pic.twitter.com/aTl2dKFScZ
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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