On a warm June evening at Nationals Park, something rare happened in Washington: Republicans and Democrats set aside their political feuds and took the field for a good cause.
It was time for the annual Congressional Baseball Game for Charity — and the GOP came ready to dominate.
By the end of the night, the scoreboard told a lopsided story: Republicans 13, Democrats 2. That marked the GOP’s fifth straight win in this long-standing bipartisan tradition.
Friendly Rivalry Amid Political Tensions
Even though the mood in Congress has been heated lately — with lawmakers locked in debates over President Trump’s proposed budget — players from both sides showed up in good spirits.
With cleats on and gloves ready, members of the House and Senate traded Capitol Hill for the baseball diamond, giving politics a night off for charity.
A Historic Game with Deep Roots
This game isn’t just about baseball. It’s been part of Washington culture for over a century, acting as a rare moment where lawmakers can share laughs, cheers, and even the occasional strikeout, all while supporting local causes.
And this year, the stakes weren’t just about bragging rights.
Honoring a Painful Past — and a Powerful Comeback
The game carries emotional weight too. Back in 2017, the tradition was nearly shattered when a shooter opened fire during a Republican practice session, injuring several, including Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise.
He was critically wounded and spent months in recovery, with many on Capitol Hill watching him navigate the halls on a mobility scooter.
But this year, Scalise returned to the field — stepping up to bat to roaring applause from the crowd.
His appearance marked not only personal resilience but the healing power of shared community events like this one.
Big Names and Big Numbers
Before the first pitch, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins handed over the game ball, officially kicking things off.
Representatives from sponsors Disney and electric vehicle company Rivian threw out the ceremonial first pitches, shouting the classic call: “Play ball!”
The excitement didn’t end there. The Congressional Sports for Charity Foundation announced that this year’s event had broken every record in the book — from ticket sales to total donations.
A Record-Breaking Year for Charity
More than 30,000 tickets were sold, and over $2.75 million was raised for charities across the Washington, D.C. metro area.
According to the Foundation, that makes this the most successful Congressional Baseball Game in history.
“It’s a thrilling night as we welcome the biggest crowd we’ve ever had at Nationals Park,” said Mark Johnson of the Congressional Sports for Charity Foundation.
“For over 100 years, this game has united Republicans and Democrats with one goal: helping our community.
The money raised this year will support dozens of nonprofits that work with children and families in need.”
Johnson also thanked the fans, players, coaches, and sponsors for keeping the tradition alive — and helping it grow year after year.
Final Whistle — Or Final Inning?
While the score was one-sided, the spirit of the game was anything but.
In a city that rarely agrees on anything, this was a reminder that unity isn’t entirely out of reach — especially when charity is the common goal.
And if next year’s event continues this momentum, the Congressional Baseball Game might just become the one thing both parties can still knock out of the park.
