Mark Kelly Faces Backlash After Wearing Mexico Jersey During World Cup Watch Party

Sen. Mark Kelly drew widespread criticism on social media after attending a World Cup watch party in Tucson wearing a Mexico national team jersey instead of showing support for Team USA during the tournament. The Arizona Democrat shared photos of himself at the event as Mexico faced England in the Round of 16.

Kelly posted that Tucson “sure knows how to do the World Cup,” highlighting the large crowd gathered to watch Mexico’s match. Because Arizona shares a border with Mexico and has a large Mexican-American population, supporters viewed the appearance as community outreach, while critics argued it sent the wrong message during a tournament co-hosted by the United States.

The photos quickly sparked criticism from conservative commentators and political figures. CNN commentator Scott Jennings mocked the senator’s decision, while other critics questioned why an American senator would publicly wear another country’s jersey instead of supporting the United States.

The controversy was amplified because the United States remained alive in the World Cup while Mexico was eliminated after a 3-2 loss to England. Some critics argued that Kelly’s wardrobe choice was especially tone-deaf given that the U.S. is one of the tournament’s host nations and was preparing for its own Round of 16 match against Belgium.

Kelly’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the backlash. The Arizona senator has frequently clashed with the Trump administration on issues ranging from defense policy to border security and has been mentioned as a possible Democratic contender for the 2028 presidential election.