Democrats face a tough call: Cut a college sports deal with Trump, or hold out?
The party’s coalition is fractured on a politically marketable bill weeks ahead of the midterms as its senators approach a tricky vote.
Senate Democrats are deliberating a potentially game-changing bipartisan deal with President Donald Trump to overhaul college sports. The bill, championed by Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell, would standardize NIL rules, place limitations on athlete salaries, and curb conference realignment and transfers. Though the Democratic coalition is divided on the issue, with some groups opposing it, historical Black conferences and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund back the legislation.
If the bill manages to gain the support of the Democratic caucus, Republicans could secure a high-profile bipartisan achievement ahead of the midterms. Despite opposition from some Democrats, including Sen. Chris Murphy, who doubts the bill's viability, many party members believe the legislation is necessary to stabilize the college sports landscape.
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