Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has ignited conversations both on and off the field after launching a political action committee (PAC) aimed at promoting “traditional values.” The Upright PAC, announced during the Chiefs’ bye week, encourages Christians to vote in favor of conservative ideals. While some have raised questions about the mix of sports and politics, Chiefs owner Clark Huntmade it clear that he supports Butker’s decision to use his platform for personal beliefs.
The Chiefs, who are fresh off another Super Bowl victory, have always been a team where players are encouraged to take stands on social issues. Hunt spoke openly about this approach, saying, “I talk to the players every year about using their platform to make a difference.” This year, Butker’s Upright PAC became a focal point, particularly because of its collaboration with prominent political figures like Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley. While the Chiefs organization has remained neutral on the issue, Hunt’s backing of Butker’s decision sends a strong message about supporting players’ personal initiatives.
Harrison Butker defends his controversial speech to the media
The Upright PAC quickly gained traction, in part due to its collaboration with Hawley, who is currently running for re-election against Democrat Lucas Kunce. The PAC’s messaging revolves around defending conservative values, stating on its website that “we’re seeing our values under attack every day.” Butker’s involvement in this political movement demonstrates how NFL athletes are increasingly using their influence beyond the gridiron, making an impact in social and political spheres.
Butker has never shied away from sharing his views. Earlier this year, he delivered a controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, a private Catholic liberal arts school in Kansas. In his address, he expressed traditional views on gender roles and criticized some Catholic leaders for supporting progressive ideologies. The speech ignited debate, particularly for its critiques on topics like gender identity and abortion.
Following the commencement address, the NFL distanced itself from Butker’s statements, reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and diversity. “His views are not representative of the NFL as an organization,” the league said in a statement. Butker, however, remained steadfast, stating during training camp, “I believe these things will make the world a better place, and I’m going to continue sharing my views.”
Chiefs in politics: Hunt family donation and Mahomes’ neutral stance
The Chiefs organization, while supporting Butker’s right to free speech, has its own history of political involvement. The Hunt family recently contributed $300,000 to a Missouri group opposing a ballot measure that could overturn the state’s near-total ban on abortion. The Chiefs confirmed that the donation came from Lamar Hunt Jr., Clark Hunt’s half-brother, through their family company, Unity Hunt.
As Butker’s PAC stirs conversation, other Chiefs players are also navigating their roles in the political sphere. Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs’ star quarterback, has taken a more neutral stance, stating that he would not endorse any candidates in the upcoming election. “My place is to inform people to get registered to vote and do their own research,” Mahomes said, emphasizing his desire to stay out of direct political endorsements.
Mahomes’ decision to avoid political endorsements came shortly after former President Donald Trump made comments about his wife, Brittany Mahomes, suggesting she supported his campaign. Despite the media frenzy, Mahomes responded calmly, saying, “At the end of the day, it’s about me and my family and how we treat other people,” keeping the focus on their charitable efforts in the community.
As political conversations swirl around the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs remain a focal point of these discussions. Whether it’s through PACs like Harrison Butker’s Upright PAC, or public stances by figures like Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs continue to showcase the evolving role of athletes as leaders in social and political issues. Their efforts reflect the broader trend of NFL players stepping into political spaces, using their platforms to influence change both on and off the field.
