US Governments Increasingly Using Entertainment for Geopolitical Influence

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  Media and Entertainment on Thu, Mar 26th, 2026 by Her Campus
      Locales: UNITED STATES, IRAN (ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF)

Beyond the Gridiron: How US Governments Increasingly Leverage Entertainment for Geopolitical Signaling

In 2019, the world observed a fascinating, and arguably unsettling, intersection of American football and foreign policy. Reports surfaced detailing how the Trump administration appeared to leverage the NFL - a cultural behemoth with unparalleled reach - to subtly reinforce its hardline stance against Iran. While initially dismissed by some as a fringe theory, mounting evidence suggests this was a calculated component of a broader strategy to project strength and influence international perceptions during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.

But the story doesn't begin, nor does it end, with Donald Trump. The use of cultural platforms, particularly entertainment, as tools for geopolitical signaling is a long-established practice, stretching back decades. What has changed in the 21st century is the scale and sophistication of these operations, aided by the ubiquity of social media and the fragmented media landscape. The Trump administration's approach with the NFL, however, represented a particularly overt and, to many, concerning application of this tactic.

The initial reports centered around the administration's seeming coordination with the NFL regarding displays of patriotism. Players kneeling during the national anthem, traditionally a form of protest against social injustice, were suddenly receiving significantly less condemnation from the administration - and even tacit encouragement - during periods of escalating tensions with Iran. American flag decals on helmets, overt expressions of support for the military, and even pre-game ceremonies were all amplified, creating a powerful visual narrative of national unity and readiness. While many athletes genuinely harbor patriotic sentiments, analysts suggested that the timing and amplification of these displays weren't coincidental.

The logic behind this strategy was two-fold. First, to deter Iran from provocative actions. The projection of national resolve - symbolized by the collective patriotism of the NFL - was intended to send a clear message: the US was prepared for conflict, both militarily and in terms of public support. Second, to shape public opinion domestically. A strong image of American readiness could rally support for a more assertive foreign policy, giving the administration greater leeway in its dealings with Iran.

However, the ethics of such manipulation are deeply questionable. Critics rightly pointed out the exploitative nature of using athletes and a beloved national pastime as pawns in a geopolitical game. The blurring of lines between genuine expression and political messaging eroded trust and raised concerns about the integrity of the NFL. Was the league complicit, or simply oblivious? The answer, likely, is a complex mix of both.

Beyond the specific case of Iran, this incident highlights a growing trend: the increasing weaponization of entertainment for geopolitical purposes. Governments worldwide are now actively monitoring and, in some cases, influencing cultural products - films, music, video games, and sporting events - to shape narratives and advance their interests. The rise of "soft power" has led to sophisticated operations designed to win "hearts and minds" through cultural influence. Think of the extensive Chinese investment in Hollywood, or the Russian government's use of social media to spread disinformation.

This isn't simply about propaganda. It's about subtly shaping perceptions, influencing decision-making, and creating a favorable environment for achieving geopolitical objectives. The NFL example demonstrates that even seemingly innocuous gestures can be imbued with political meaning and strategically deployed to send signals to adversaries and reassure allies.

The long-term implications of this trend are significant. As governments become more adept at leveraging entertainment for geopolitical gain, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between genuine cultural expression and manufactured narratives. This erodes trust in institutions, fuels polarization, and ultimately undermines the foundations of informed public discourse. The challenge for the future is to develop mechanisms for transparency and accountability that can prevent the manipulation of cultural platforms for political purposes - and to ensure that entertainment remains a source of genuine connection and creativity, rather than a tool for geopolitical maneuvering.