Here’s a refined news-style report on the controversy:
There’s nothing American about the ‘Commanders’”: Fans Push Back on Marjorie Harris’s Bold Claim
Washington Commanders owner Marjorie Harris recently stirred controversy by declaring her team “America’s Team”—a title long synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys. Speaking during a public event previewing the 2027 NFL Draft in Washington, D.C., Harris expressed enthusiasm for her franchise’s newfound prominence: “We have so much to look forward to … the Commanders are America’s Team” .
Fan and Media Reaction:
Many fans responded sharply online, decrying the statement as overreaching. One harsh reaction branded it “City of liars,” while others dismissed the claim as “delusional”—especially given the franchise’s frequent struggles and recent rebranding history .
Critics pointed out that the Cowboys have long held the “America’s Team” title thanks to their consistent national media presence, prime‐time games, and enduring popularity
Context: A Franchise on the Rise
Under new ownership by Josh and Marjorie Harris, the Commanders have experienced a resurgence: an NFC Championship appearance in 2024, increased support in the D.C. metro area, packed stadiums, rising merchandise sales, and a host city designation for the 2027 NFL Draft .
Washington Post‑Schar poll results (May 2024) reflect this upward trajectory—61% of D.C.–area sports fans identified as Commanders fans (up from 45% a year prior), and 50% expressed a positive opinion of the “Commanders” name .
Why the Backlash?
Tradition and branding matter: The “America’s Team” moniker is deeply tied to the Cowboys’ legacy—a connection Washington lacks, having changed names multiple times over recent years .
Skepticism about the team’s identity persists despite on-field success; many believe a catchphrase like that is premature .
Bottom Line
Marjorie Harris’s declaration reflects Washington’s growing confidence and ambition under new ownership—but it’s met stiff resistance. For die-hard NFL fans, “America’s Team” remains the Cowboys—at least for now.
That said, the Commanders are undeniably gaining momentum: increased local support, national attention, and a central role in hosting the 2027 draft. Whether Harris’s claim will stick remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Commanders are no longer a fringe franchise—they’re forcing their way into the spotlight.
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