Trump backs Massapequa schools in Native American mascot fight

Former President Donald Trump has voiced strong support for the Massapequa School District's effort to retain its 'Chiefs' mascot, which is under threat due to New York State's ban on Indigenous names, mascots, and logos in public schools. Trump called the mandate to change the longstanding team name 'ridiculous' and an 'affront' to Native Americans, further urging Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to intervene. The Massapequa community and school officials argue that the Chiefs name is integral to their local identity and heritage, while state officials cite research indicating such mascots are harmful to Indigenous students. A federal judge recently upheld the state's authority to enforce the ban, which threatens non-compliant districts with the loss of state funding or removal of school board members. The school district claims that rebranding would cost about $1 million, and Trump compared the situation to the Kansas City Chiefs, noting their continued use of the name. The controversy highlights a clash between local tradition and state efforts to address concerns over Indigenous representation in schools.