They just couldn’t leave it alone…
California Democrats are facing sharp backlash after posting a series of messages on social media declaring that certain Americans should not be “allowed” to watch the World Cup if they hold political views that conflict with progressive priorities.
In a string of posts on X, the California Democratic Party targeted critics of immigration policies, diversity initiatives and English-only cultural expectations ahead of the World Cup matches being hosted across the state.
“You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever voted against immigration,” the party wrote in one post.
You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever voted against immigration.
— California Democratic Party (@CA_Dem) June 11, 2026
A follow-up message added: “You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever spoken out against DEI.”
You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you’ve ever spoken out against DEI.
— California Democratic Party (@CA_Dem) June 11, 2026
The party later escalated the messaging further, writing: “You’re not allowed to watch the World Cup if you only want people to speak English.”
You're not allowed to watch the World Cup if you only want people to speak English.
— California Democratic Party (@CA_Dem) June 11, 2026
The posts quickly ignited criticism online, with many users accusing the party of elitism, political gatekeeping and deliberately inflaming cultural tensions surrounding the international tournament.
“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 commenter wrote.
“Why? I don’t even understand the logic to this post,” a third user added.
The controversy erupted as California prepares to host some of the World Cup’s highest-profile matches.
SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles will host Team USA’s opening match against Paraguay on Friday night, along with seven additional games during the tournament. Those matchups include Iran vs. New Zealand, Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey vs. United States, two Round of 32 contests and a quarterfinal match.
Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara will host six more matches, bringing California’s total number of World Cup games to 14.
The social media controversy comes as Democrats continue struggling nationally with messaging on immigration, cultural issues, and identity politics heading into the 2026 midterm cycle.
More over at The New York Post:
California Democrats slammed for bizarre World Cup statements: 'You're not allowed to watch' https://t.co/ihyXZ4KSg0 pic.twitter.com/QvqaXfU8NJ
— New York Post (@nypost) June 12, 2026
