PITTSBURGH --Pittsburgh Steelers players, quarterback Mason Rudolph and safety Miles Killebrew, are unapologetic after backlash from their appearance at President Donald Trump’s rally in West Mifflin on Friday.
Trump held the rally to discuss the new partnership, which will keep U.S. Steel in the Pittsburgh region and more than double the rate of tariffs on foreign steel.
The appearance upset some Steelers season ticket holders, who emailed the Steelers organization. Shortly after those emails were sent, the organization responded with a statement that players make their own, which will keep U.S. Steel in the Pittsburgh region and decisions.
“We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with us. As valued fans, your voice is an essential part of what makes our Steelers community and fan base so strong. We understand that a recent rally in Pittsburgh has generated a range of reactions from our fan base. Our alumni and current players make their own individual decisions that reflect their views, and they do not necessarily represent the view of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your passion and your continued support of the team,” the statement read.
Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Rudolph understands there will be backlash on social media but says he had a friend in Washington, D.C. that invited him to the rally, and he thought it would be great attend.
“There’s backlash every day you look on social media,” Rudolph said. “That’s the nature of social media. It’s the nature of why America’s so great because everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and speech is free... I’ve got a lifelong friend who works in D.C. and invited me. It was a pretty incredible opportunity to meet guys who literally make steel. I had never been to a steel mill before. It was pretty impressive. Sounds like a great, new investment. It’s gonna help create jobs and bolster the Pittsburgh economy.”
Killebrew shared Rudolph’s thoughts and noted he would not be apologetic about his appearance at the event, which he also viewed as a great cause.
“Here’s the deal. I remember what it was like being a kid, and me and my friends growing up, we either wanted to be the president or have the chance to meet him one day,” Killebrew said. “And yesterday, I got to meet the president. I’m not apologetic about that/ For anyone who thinks that’s a bad thing, to be honest, I couldn’t care less. I wasn’t there signing legislation. I was just there meeting the president and glad I did it.”
Former Steelers running back Rocky Bleier, a legend from the team’s 1970s team, also attended the rally and gifted President Trump a No. 47 jersey.