Getty Images

It’s hard to believe, but the NFL became a big political issue during the 2016 election season. Typically a distraction from reality for many Americans, the NFL was thrust into the political spotlight by players protesting the national anthem.

Even the Super Bowl, usually a day of American celebration, became a divisive political issue for some.

The New England Patriots found themselves in the middle of all this controversy. As one of the most successful franchises of the last two decades, many already had plenty of reasons to despise the organization. However, the team also managed to draw the ire of liberals when it was revealed that owner Robert Kraft and coach Bill Belichick were supporters of Donald Trump’s candidacy, and quarterback Tom Brady is said to be a personal friend of our commander-in-chief.

Ironically, the Patriots ended the 2016 season with another run to the Super Bowl. Once there, liberals across the country cheered for their opponents, claiming the organization was a symbol of white supremacy. In the end, the Patriots emerged from the game with their fifth Super Bowl trophy in hand.

Of course, the end of the season didn’t bring an end to the drama. As is customary after making a championship run, the team went to the White House to visit the president. Predictably, the media used the event as a chance to attack President Trump, only to get called out by the Patriots on Twitter for spreading fake news.

As the new season approaches, the Patriots still aren’t shying away from the political controversy. In fact, their latest gesture to President Trump is sure to cause another liberal meltdown.

From USA Today:

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave President Trump a commemorative Super Bowl ring after the team’s visit to the White House in April.

Patriots spokesman Stacey James told USA TODAY Sports that during the team’s championship visit, Trump mentioned to Kraft, a longtime friend, how honored he was that the Patriots were the first team to visit the White House during his presidency.

James said that of the five times the Patriots have visited the White House, this one included the best treatment — in Kraft’s eyes — by allowing the most time with the President and including the most impressive White House tour.

The gift was no small gesture, as the Patriots typically go all out on their Super Bowl rings:

James said the Patriots have almost always paid more than what the NFL expensed for the rings, and that this year’s ring, according to Josten’s, is the “biggest Super Bowl ring” to date. No exact price tag was provided. In 2015, Kraft ordered rings valued at $36,500 each or approximately $5.5 million in total, according to ESPN. Those rings featured 200 diamonds.

Needless to say, the Patriots assured themselves another season as left-wing America’s most hated team. However, with odds saying the team is likely to repeat as Super Bowl Champs, it seems like they’re just fine with how things are.

[Note: This post was written by Michael Lee. Follow him on Twitter @UAMichaelLee]