The NFL schedule for the 2016-17 regular season has Republican candidate Donald Trump unhappy because the presidential debates are scheduled for opposite some of the football games.
It’s Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton versus the NFL! Only in some instances, though. Reportedly, the upcoming presidential debates schedule that gets going in late September will present a big conflict with the NFL schedule, according to Trump at least.
The billionaire businessman and Republican nominee tweeted his displeasure over how the debates might be rigged since football fans may have their attention elsewhere on certain nights.
As usual, Hillary & the Dems are trying to rig the debates so 2 are up against major NFL games. Same as last time w/ Bernie. Unacceptable!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 30, 2016
According to Sporting News, Trump and Hillary won’t be up against any major competition for their first debate. It will take place on the same night as a Week 3 “Monday Night Football” matchup featuring the Falcons taking on the Saints. It could draw some attention or could be a flop based on the teams’ records. That said, those who want to see the debate after the game can always do so thanks to modern technology.
However, the Oct. 9 game will be a “Sunday Night Football” matchup featuring the Giants against the Packers in Wisconsin. It’s been mentioned that Trump lost in the GOP primary election in the state by 13 points to Ted Cruz. This seems like it may be a game drawing plenty of interest, while Trump and Clinton will face off in Saint Louis for their second debate on that same night.
The third scheduled presidential debate will be on Oct. 19 at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the home of sports gambling. However, that day happens to be a Wednesday so Trump won’t need to worry about any football getting in the way of his “must see moments” against Hillary. He could possibly complain about NBA preseason basketball or potential MLB playoffs games happening too.
By the way, the presidential debates were scheduled way ahead of Trump’s recent complaint, as they were said to have been made a year ago. Does he still have a legitimate gripe now?
For more NFL coverage, make sure to check out our hub.