Former President Donald Trump called former Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker to the stage during an event at Wheeler High School in Marietta, Georgia, on July 22, 2026, and encouraged fans to continue the famous Tomahawk Chop chant at Braves home games.

Trump said, "Ohhh listen... they say you are not allowed to do that.. do it!" urging fans to persist despite controversy surrounding the chant.

Trump also shook hands with Braves Development Company President and CEO Mike Plant at the event. The Tomahawk Chop has been a subject of debate, with some fans holding signs labeling it as racist, such as during the 2021 World Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas.

The chant has been defended by some as a tradition, while others have called for changes similar to the Cleveland baseball team's name change from Indians to Guardians after 2020.

CNN reporter Sara Sidner questioned UFC President Dana White about Trump's presence at sporting events, suggesting authoritarian parallels, a comparison criticized by journalist Emily Austin as "ridiculous," noting that presidents have historically attended sports events to unify the country.

Sources