Speaker Johnson says World Cup fans value US more than 'socialists'
As millions of World Cup fans travel across the United States, House Speaker Mike Johnson said Americans should take greater pride in their country.
Speaking on June 24 in Washington, DC, Johnson pointed to international visitors' enthusiasm for American culture as a contrast to what he described as declining national pride, referencing recent Democratic primary wins by candidates aligned with democratic socialism.
"We're seeing people from different countries come and get a little taste of America, a little taste of freedom, of our culture and our society," Johnson said. "And they appreciate it so much more than these socialists running for Congress."
He said World Cup visitors are embracing the country's "world-class facilities" and "incredible atmosphere," as well as everyday American experiences.
Johnson cited examples of foreign visitors showing interest in U.S. customs, from Dutch travelers marveling at Buc-ee's gas stations to German players visiting Waffle House, English fans exploring the Everglades, and Japanese tourists reacting to free chips and salsa.
"Don't forget your blessings," Johnson said.
His comments come as Americans report mixed levels of national pride. An NBC News poll published this week found 33% of respondents say they are "extremely proud" to be American, while 23% say they are "very proud." About 21% said they are "only a little" or "not at all" proud.
World Cup matches are being played in 11 U.S. cities - Atlanta, Miami, Boston, New York, Dallas, Philadelphia, Houston, the San Francisco Bay Area, Kansas City, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The United States is hosting matches through July 19 and is expected to attract at least 10 million visitors, according to State Department data.
According to previous USA TODAY reporting, visitors are documenting their experiences in the United States on social media and trying tasty foods like Crunchwrap Supremes, Big Macs, and Triple Dippers. People are enjoying the food so much that the Transportation Security Administration posted a warning on social media alerting travelers to pack their ranch in checked luggage.
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter. Reach her at mdelrey@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Speaker Johnson says World Cup fans value US more than 'socialists'
Reporting by Michelle Del Rey , USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published June 25, 2026 at 7:26 PM.