PRESIDENT HOLDS AND GAINS – AT 10:20 A.M. ET:  Politically, the question is whether President Trump gains or loses by the current controversy over knees and football.  It appears he is gaining.  From Rasmussen Reports: 

The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Friday shows that 45% of Likely U.S. Voters approve of President Trump’s job performance. Fifty-four percent (54%) disapprove.
The latest figures include 29% who Strongly Approve of the way Trump is performing and 46% who Strongly Disapprove.

COMMENT:  When the controversy erupted, Trump was running at about 41 or 42 percent in the Rasmussen poll, which has a good record of accuracy.  Today's 45 percent number is clearly encouraging.  It's about where Barack Obama spent most of his presidency.

I think there are other signs that the president is winning.  The NFL is clearly concerned about its standing and the standing of pro football in general.  There has been a flurry of meetings, and some of the teams are trying to work out reasonable compromises.  Viewership is down.  Money is being lost.

I sense a widespread feeling that the "knee guys" simply chose the wrong timing in making their protests.  You don't insult the flag or the anthem.  You can protest on your own time, and even with a large group of players. 

I'd imagine the knee story will fade.  But at this stage, the president comes out on top.

September 29,  2017