In a rare moment of unity amid Washington’s usual political tension, members of Congress traded in their suits for baseball jerseys on Wednesday night.
The annual Congressional Baseball Game for Charity returned to Nationals Park — and it wasn’t just a game, it was a record-breaking event that brought together lawmakers from both sides of the aisle for a good cause.
Republicans Keep Their Winning Streak Alive with a Dominant 13-2 Win
While the night was all about charity and camaraderie, the Republican team didn’t hold back when it came to competing on the field.
They secured their fifth consecutive victory, crushing the Democrats with a final score of 13 to 2.
It was a lopsided win, but spirits stayed high as the crowd cheered on their favorite members of Congress under the bright stadium lights.
Setting Politics Aside to Support Local Causes
Yes, these lawmakers battle it out on the House and Senate floors every day — but for one night, all that was set aside.
Republicans and Democrats laced up their cleats, buttoned their jerseys, and took the field with one goal: to raise money for charity.
And this year, they knocked it out of the park — literally and figuratively.
A Night to Remember for Steve Scalise
One of the evening’s most emotional moments came when Rep. Steve Scalise stepped up to bat.
The Louisiana Republican, who was seriously wounded during the tragic 2017 shooting at a GOP practice session, received a standing ovation from the crowd.
His return to the field symbolized resilience and unity — a powerful reminder of how far he’s come since that harrowing day.
Game Ball and First Pitch Delivered with a Touch of Star Power
Before the action got underway, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins delivered the game ball, setting the tone for an energetic evening.
Then, representatives from event sponsors Disney and Rivian threw out the ceremonial first pitch, rallying the crowd with a booming call to “play ball!”
Record-Breaking Fundraising and Attendance Numbers
The Congressional Sports for Charity Foundation had plenty to celebrate this year.
Ticket sales topped 30,000, and the event raised a jaw-dropping $2.75 million for local charities in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area — crushing the previous year’s records.
Organizers confirmed it was the most successful Congressional Baseball Game ever.
A Tradition Over a Century Old Still Brings People Together
The annual game has been a tradition for over 100 years, and it continues to be one of the few occasions where political rivals can come together in good faith.
Mark Johnson, a representative of the foundation, summed it up best in his statement to the media:
“For over a century, this game has brought Democrats and Republicans together in a shared commitment to strengthening our community.
This year’s record-breaking $2.75+ million raised will benefit dozens of remarkable organizations that support vulnerable children and families throughout the D.C. metro area.”
Gratitude to Players, Sponsors, and Fans
From the lawmakers swinging bats to the fans cheering in the stands, everyone played a part in making this night a win for more than just the scoreboard.
Johnson added, “We’re honored to be part of this great bipartisan tradition and are grateful for the continued support of our players, coaches, sponsors, and fans.”