At Baltimore Ravens training camp this week, head coach John Harbaugh offered a bold and fiery response to a reporter’s question about his recent trip to the White House—with former President Donald Trump—amidst controversy over Trump’s harsh remarks about Baltimore.

Framed Question Sparks Immediate Pushback

When asked about the optics of visiting Trump—given his 2019 tweets describing Baltimore as a “rat‑infested mess”—Harbaugh bristled.

“Why would you frame the question like that? I would’ve framed it like: ‘You got a chance to visit with the president—what was that experience like?’” he said.

A Memorable Family Trip, He Says

Harbaugh explained that he and his entire family attended the reception, including his brother Jim Harbaugh (head coach of the Chargers), their daughters, as well as their mother and father.

“It was amazing. It was awesome. And I promise you, I root for our president. I want our president to be successful just like I want my quarterback and my team to succeed,” he emphasized.

He noted that former Presidents Obama and Biden (when VP) were also among those he’d met, but said seeing Trump interact politely with his mother was especially meaningful.

On-Field Focus Underway

Harbaugh’s message comes as the Ravens ramp up for their 2025 preseason—with Lamar Jackson returning under center and expectations high for a potential third straight AFC North championship.

Fans React — And Opinions Are Mixed

Social media users had quick reactions:

• “He handled that question perfectly”
• “Some fans are upset, others respectful — he stood his ground”
• “Even as a rival fan, I respect his composure”

Why It Matters

This exchange highlights how NFL media days are now as much about message control as X’s and O’s. Harbaugh’s refusal to politicize his meeting and his insistence on framing it as a personal, respectful family occasion pushed back against pressure to pick sides.

He made clear he sees supporting the presidency like supporting his quarterback—and he’s not here to play by anyone else’s script.