The California Democratic Party drew swift backlash after posting a series of messages on social media suggesting that some people should not watch the World Cup if they hold certain political views.
In posts shared on X, the party said fans were “not allowed to watch” the global soccer tournament if they had supported positions at odds with its stance on immigration, diversity initiatives, and language.
“You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever voted against immigration,” the party wrote in one post.
It followed with another message that read: “You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever spoken out against DEI.”
In a third post, the party added: “You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you only want people to speak English.”
The remarks quickly sparked widespread criticism online, with opponents calling the posts divisive and tone-deaf.
“Their attitude towards all of America. You’re not allowed unless we say you’re allowed,” one user responded.
“Nobody voted against legal immigration, we voted against illegal immigration. I’m saying this as an immigrant myself,” another added.
“Why? I don’t even understand the logic to this post,” a third chimed in.
The Golden State is hosting some of World Cup’s biggest matches in Los Angeles and the Bay Area, starting with Team USA’s opening match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in LA on Friday night.
There will be seven other matches played at the stadium, including Iran vs. New Zealand, Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey vs. United States, two Round of 32 matches, and one quarterfinal showdown.
Six other matches will be played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, bringing the state’s total to 14 games.
