Trump Booed at College Football Game in Tennessee

<figure><img alt="US President Donald Trump on a screen as he attends an NCAA college football game between the University of Texas and the University of Tennessee at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee, US, September 26, 2026. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/ML3Q2APUOZCPDNK6KFLNNN4RTA.JPG?auth=d855ba8200cc3f4d78de4ce6d6cc4a48eac6ca1851ba4987d536399b16456fc8&amp;smart=true&amp;width=1241&amp;height=698" /><figcaption>Jonathan Ernst / REUTERS</figcaption></figure><p>On September 26, 2026, President Donald Trump was booed during a college football game at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee, where the Tennessee Volunteers faced the Texas Longhorns. The president, 80, was shown on the Jumbotron, prompting a mixed reaction from the crowd.</p><p>Following Trump's arrival, Air Force One flew over the stadium, but the reception inside was less favorable. Video footage of the event showed a significant number of boos accompanying scattered applause, which circulated widely on social media.</p><p>Trump departed at halftime, missing the conclusion of the game, which Texas won 20-17. Despite the crowd's reaction, Trump posted a video later, appearing to celebrate his appearance.</p><p>Reports varied regarding the crowd's response, with some outlets noting loud jeers while others, like Fox News, described the reaction as “massive cheers.” The differing accounts highlight the challenge of accurately gauging stadium reactions, which can depend on seating location and microphone placement.</p><p>Social media reactions were similarly mixed, with some users claiming Trump was booed heavily, while others insisted he received a warm welcome. Notably, Tennessee had supported Trump with 64.19% of its vote in the 2024 presidential election, making the reception at the game noteworthy for a president who emphasizes his popularity among his base.</p><p>Trump attended the game with Tennessee Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, as well as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Natalie Harp, a close associate of Trump, was also present. Some University of Tennessee students had organized to boo Trump, and videos showed fans reacting with laughter to the situation.</p><p>Before the game, fans were informed of heightened security measures due to Trump's attendance, including TSA-style screening conducted by the Secret Service.</p>