Trump Reacts to News of Mike Ditka's Death
The former president expressed surprise and offered a tribute to the former Bears coach.
President Donald Trump was informed of the death of legendary Chicago Bears coach and player Mike Ditka while on the White House lawn. Cameras captured the moment of his reaction on Friday, October 9, 2026.
Ditka, who led the Bears to their only Super Bowl title and is a Hall of Fame inductee, died at the age of 86. Trump, who was speaking with boxer Mike Tyson and New York Yankees president Randy Levine, appeared to be unaware of the news until it was presented to him.
"Oh, he did?" Trump asked upon hearing of Ditka's passing. He then turned to his companions and said, "Mike Ditka."
Trump described Ditka as "a great guy" and a "big supporter" of his campaigns. "He was with me all the way. He was tough," Trump remarked, drawing a parallel to his previous public reactions to the deaths of prominent figures. "He was great. He was great. He was a winner. He was a tough cookie. He was great."
Moment stunned Donald Trump discovers legendary Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka has died as President pays tribute to his 'big supporter'
Moment stunned Donald Trump discovers legendary Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka has died as President pays tribute to his 'big supporter'