Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has gained the backing of team owner Clark Hunt for his political action committee (PAC), UPRIGHT, which aims to mobilize voters around traditional conservative values. Butker launched the PAC during the team’s bye week, with the support of notable conservative figures like Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO).
Hunt emphasized that players should use their platforms to make a difference, noting that he is unconcerned when athletes on his team express their views, regardless of political leanings. He made it clear that the Chiefs organization respects the diverse political opinions of its players.
Butker’s PAC is focused on rallying Christians across the country to defend traditional values, including in areas like education, media, and government policies. He has publicly spoken out against issues such as abortion and Pride Month, which has drawn criticism from detractors but resonated with his supporters.
The kicker’s activism isn’t new. In May, Butker made headlines for his controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, where he urged female graduates to prioritize roles as wives and mothers, sparking accusations of misogyny. The NFL distanced itself from Butker’s views, emphasizing its commitment to inclusion, but Butker remains steadfast in his beliefs.
The Hunt family has historically supported conservative causes, including opposition to efforts in Missouri to overturn a near-total abortion ban. Though Butker has criticized certain statements from President Donald Trump, he recently endorsed Trump as the “most pro-life president.”
Butker’s UPRIGHT PAC has not yet disclosed donations for the 2024 election cycle, but it continues to garner attention for its strong focus on traditional values.
