In the days leading up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election, a viral social media post claimed that NBA legend Michael Jordan had endorsed Donald Trump. However, Jordan swiftly responded to refute the endorsement. His representatives issued a strong statement, saying, “There is absolutely no truth to the claim that Michael Jordan has made an endorsement in the presidential election.”
The false post, shared on X (formerly Twitter), sparked mixed reactions online, as thousands of users either praised or criticized the supposed endorsement. Many followers were surprised, considering Jordan’s historically private stance on political matters.
Jordan’s History of Political Neutrality
This is not the first time Jordan has been perceived as apolitical. He famously avoided political endorsement in the 1990 North Carolina Senate race between Democrat Harvey Gantt and Republican Jesse Helms. At the time, Jordan was criticized for his comment that “Republicans buy sneakers, too,” a remark many interpreted as prioritizing his business interests over political engagement.
Reflecting on that era in the documentary The Last Dance, Jordan clarified his stance: “I never thought of myself as an activist. I thought of myself as a basketball player.” Although he didn’t openly support Gantt, he later revealed he had quietly donated to the Democrat’s campaign.
The fake post alleging a Trump endorsement came amid high-profile endorsements from other celebrities, such as LeBron James, who publicly supported Kamala Harris. Jordan’s silence on political endorsements has set him apart from figures like James, who recently posted, “The choice is clear to me. VOTE KAMALA HARRIS!!!” in a statement about the future he envisions for his children and family.
Social Media Sparks Misinformation
Jordan’s denial arrives in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly on social media. His spokesperson emphasized that Jordan remains neutral in this year’s election, aiming to clear any doubts among fans and the public.
Despite recent speculation, Jordan has chosen to keep his political views private. As his representatives stated, any claims about his involvement in political endorsements are entirely unfounded.