Actor and filmmaker Sylvester Stallone introduced President-elect Donald Trump at the America First Policy Institute Gala by calling him the “second George Washington.” Stallone described Trump as a mythical character who has achieved what no one else in the world could, comparing him to George Washington and praising his dedication to America. Trump walked onto the stage to Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” after Stallone’s introduction, where he shook hands with the actor.
Despite not publicly endorsing Trump during the 2024 election cycle, Stallone has shown admiration for the former president in the past. He admitted to liking Trump in a 2016 interview with Variety magazine, comparing him to other larger-than-life figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Babe Ruth. Stallone did not vote in the 2016 and 2020 elections but did participate in a FaceTime call with Fox News’ Brett Baier in October 2024, encouraging Pennsylvania voters to “keep punching.”
Stallone’s speech at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday marked the first time he publicly shared his thoughts on a Trump presidency. He kept his personal politics quiet over the years but could not contain his admiration for Trump during the AFPI Gala, where he referred to him as the “second George Washington” for his impact on America and the world. Stallone spoke shortly before Trump took the stage, emphasizing the transformative nature of his Rocky character in relation to Trump.
Stallone’s message to Pennsylvania voters to “keep punching” echoed his passionate support for Trump and his policies. Despite remaining largely apolitical in the past, Stallone’s introduction of Trump at the AFPI Gala highlighted his admiration for the former president. Stallone remarked on how Washington changed the world by defending his country, just as he believes Trump has done during his presidency.
Stallone’s introduction of Trump at the AFPI Gala was brief but impactful, drawing parallels between the former president and historical figures like George Washington. He praised Trump’s dedication to America and the world, emphasizing the significance of his presidency. Stallone’s comparison of Trump to George Washington served as a testament to his admiration for the former president and his belief in his transformative impact.
Overall, Stallone’s speech at the AFPI Gala showcased his admiration for President-elect Donald Trump and his belief in his ability to change the world. By comparing Trump to historical figures like George Washington, Stallone highlighted the transformative nature of his presidency and the impact it has had on America and the world. Despite not publicly endorsing Trump during the 2024 election cycle, Stallone’s introduction of the former president at the gala demonstrated his support for him and his policies.
