Jason Kelce’s patriotic Fourth of July post draws criticism after Trump signs $3.3T bill, sparking heated online debate.

Patriotic Message Triggers Social Media Backlash

Philadelphia Eagles icon Jason Kelce found himself at the center of controversy this Fourth of July after posting a celebratory message on social media. Kelce, widely respected for his football achievements and community involvement, shared an Instagram video of fireworks along with a caption expressing his love for the holiday and a call for unity. “Man I love the 4th! One of the great days we all can set aside our differences in this country, and enjoy the one thing we all share in common. That we are American! Cheers to you oh beautiful America,” Kelce wrote.

However, the post quickly drew a wave of criticism in the comment section, amassing more than 2,000 responses—far more than his typical engagement. The timing of Kelce’s message, coming just hours after President Donald Trump signed the sweeping $3.3 trillion “big, beautiful bill” into law, appeared to spark much of the backlash. Many Americans, still reacting to the new legislation and its potential impact on social programs and tax policy, took issue with Kelce’s tone.

Online Reactions Reflect Broader Political Divide

“Set aside differences? One party wants to feed children. The other wants to feed brown people to alligators,” wrote one Instagram user, pointing to partisan divisions and perceived injustices. Another commented, “Unfortunately Jason this is not real life for many. They signed the worst bill for so many Americans today just to rub it in our faces. I know it’s hard to understand, but so many will suffer.”

Other users labeled Kelce’s post as “tone deaf” and “out of touch,” urging him to consider the struggles faced by millions of Americans amid sweeping policy changes. “Love u bud but this is so out of touch, I beg you please read the room rn. So many are suffering,” one commenter pleaded. Another wrote, “There is nothing beautiful about this country right now.”

The sharp response to Kelce’s post stands in contrast to his usual avoidance of political commentary. Historically, both Jason and his brother, NFL star Travis Kelce, have refrained from making their personal political views public. However, Travis Kelce’s girlfriend, pop superstar Taylor Swift, notably endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, adding an extra layer of public scrutiny to the Kelce family’s social media presence.

By the time of publication, the comment count on Kelce’s Fourth of July post had surpassed 2,000, more than doubling the total number of comments on his previous three posts combined. The episode underscores the intensity of current political debates in the U.S., where even holiday expressions of patriotism can trigger heated reactions when national policy shifts are at the forefront of public consciousness.

As online discussions continue, Kelce’s experience reflects a larger trend: In today’s polarized environment, public figures often find their most innocuous messages scrutinized through a political lens, especially when posted amid contentious legislative developments.