dave_ross's Blog

Look, I get it. You pay your hard earned money to go to a game, you generally have the "right" to say and do what you want at a ballgame. But booing the President of the United States? As he gets introduced to throw out the first pitch? I think that's crossing the line.

And here's why: this is NOT a political arena. This is a sporting event. This tradition of the president throwing out the first pitch dates back to President Taft. From Commanders in Chief like FDR, to Eisenhower, to Kennedy, to Nixon, to Clinton and Bush, it is a time honored tradition.

Look, put your political affiliation aside when you come to the ballpark for a Nats opening game. No matter what side of the political spectrum you may reside, I always say this: even if you do not respect the man, respect the office. As a Marine, we were taught this from day one; respect the rank. And I always will. 

I must say I was disappointed to hear the mixture of boos reign down at Nationals Park last night. It was a terrific and historic night, and there's a reason the President of the United States was ASKED to be there.

Next year, there will be a new president in the White House. No matter if it's Obama, Clinton, or McCain, I would hope that when the Commander in Chief throws out the first pitch next season, he or she is shown more respect than what happenend last night.