(PatriotNews.net) – Hockey icon Wayne Gretzky sparked a social media firestorm last week after he and his family attended an election party for President-elect Donald Trump. Photos surfaced showing Gretzky wearing a white “Make America Great Again” hat at the Mar-a-Lago event, accompanied by his wife Janet, daughter Paulina, and son-in-law Dustin Johnson.
Dubbed “The Great One” for his unmatched hockey legacy, Gretzky found himself in the center of political controversy as many online criticized his choice to support Trump. While some fans expressed disappointment, others defended his right to back the candidate of his choice.
Gretzky is not alone among athletes who have publicly supported Trump. Over recent months, names like NFL stars Nick Bosa and Harrison Butker, golf legend Brett Favre, racecar driver Danica Patrick, and even social media personality Jake Paul have voiced their support for the president-elect. A number of UFC fighters have also joined the list, showing that Trump continues to attract high-profile endorsements from the sports world.
The election itself marked a major victory for Trump, who decisively defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump carried key battleground states, including Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, breaking through the so-called “blue wall” of Democratic strongholds. He earned 312 electoral votes and led in the popular vote, securing nearly 75 million votes by early Monday compared to Harris’s 71.2 million.
Trump’s triumph was celebrated at Mar-a-Lago, where Gretzky’s attendance made waves, adding yet another layer to his storied career. Known for his sportsmanship on the ice, Gretzky’s involvement in the political sphere remains rare. However, this high-profile appearance indicates his willingness to support Trump’s vision for the country.
While some argue that celebrities, including athletes, should steer clear of politics, Gretzky’s presence at the party underscores the growing intersection of sports and public affairs. Whether he expected the backlash or not, it’s clear that Gretzky’s influence extends beyond the rink, sparking debates about freedom of expression, fan expectations, and the role of sports figures in political discussions.
As Trump prepares to take office, Gretzky joins a roster of sports legends who are shaping the national conversation—both on and off the field.
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