Saquon Barkley Declines Trump Youth Fitness Council Spot

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on July 31, 2025, reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test and establishing the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, chaired by golfer Bryson DeChambeau and including prominent athletes and entertainers. The council aims to promote physical fitness and healthy living, with goals such as restoring tradition to college athletics and reforming the transfer portal. Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley was listed among the council members in the White House announcement; however, Barkley publicly clarified that he declined the invitation due to his busy schedule and family considerations, expressing surprise at his name being used without his consent. Barkley emphasized that his decision was not politically motivated but based on practical commitments, and he had only been consulted about nutrition rather than officially joining the council. The inclusion of Barkley without his formal acceptance raised questions about the accuracy of the council’s announced roster. Trump’s administration is focusing on addressing America's obesity crisis under the slogan "Make America Healthy Again," with the council playing a key advisory role in school-based fitness programs.