President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance are set to attend the annual Army-Navy game in Landover, Maryland, on Saturday, accompanied by guests likely to spark debate.
For the 125th meeting of the Black Knights and Midshipmen, a source told Fox News that Trump plans to bring Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth to the highly anticipated event. Vance, meanwhile, confirmed on social media that he will be joined by Marine veteran Daniel Penny.
Penny was recently acquitted in the subway chokehold death of Jordan Neely in New York City, a verdict that drew criticism from some on the left and highlighted ongoing debates around crime and mental health.
Hegseth’s attendance comes as he continues to navigate his nomination for the Defense Secretary role. His appearance is particularly notable with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also expected to attend. DeSantis, once floated as a potential alternative to Hegseth for the defense role, may or may not be seated with Trump during the game.
By bringing Hegseth, Trump signals public support for the nominee as some senators remain undecided on his confirmation. A former Army National Guard member and Fox News host, Hegseth served in Afghanistan and Iraq but has faced allegations of misconduct, including accusations of mistreatment of women, which he denies. While Hegseth reached a financial settlement with an accuser in 2017 to avoid a lawsuit, he has pledged sobriety if confirmed for the position.
Separately, Vance criticized New York City prosecutors on social media for pursuing the case against Penny while confirming the veteran’s attendance at the game.
“Daniel’s a good guy, and New York’s mob district attorney tried to ruin his life for having a backbone,” Vance wrote. “I’m grateful he accepted my invitation and hope he’s able to have fun and appreciate how much his fellow citizens admire his courage.”Â
Daniel Penny, 26, faced charges of manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide for the May 2023 subway chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man with schizophrenia. Neely had reportedly stormed onto the train, shouting death threats while under the influence of K2, a type of synthetic marijuana.
Trump has a history of attending the Army-Navy game, making appearances as president in 2018, 2019, and 2020, as well as attending as president-elect in 2016.
In contrast, President Biden has not attended the annual event during his presidency, although he did participate as vice president.
This season has been particularly successful for both football programs, heightening excitement for the rivalry game. With a combined total of 19 wins and victories over Air Force, the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy will go to the winner of Saturday’s matchup.
