In a strikingly candid interview with TIME, legendary football coach and cultural icon Deion Sanders delivered a searing critique of former President Donald Trump, denouncing his influence on American politics and calling for renewed efforts to hold him accountable..

Speaking from his Colorado office, Sanders — known for his charisma both on and off the field — reflected on the changing social and political landscape of the country he once inspired through sports. His words were blunt, his tone unmistakably weary.

“Far too many have believed his lies,” Sanders said. “He doesn’t care about anyone left behind, except himself and the billionaires backing him on Inauguration Day. We have to face the truth that a large segment of Americans are comfortable with his brand of authoritarian, power-driven politics.”

Sanders expressed sadness that many of his longtime supporters — including players, fans, and even colleagues — have aligned themselves with Trump’s rhetoric. Yet, he made clear that his criticism comes not from partisanship, but from concern for the nation’s moral compass.

When asked about Trump’s repeated online jabs — including a viral meme in which Trump appeared to strike Sanders with a golf ball — the coach laughed off the insult.

“I couldn’t care less what he thinks about me,” Sanders said with a smile.

But moments later, his tone shifted to something more resolute.

“He is the living embodiment of why the 25th Amendment and impeachment exist,” Sanders continued. “If Congress had any courage, he would’ve been thrown into the trash heap of history.”

Beyond his criticism of Trump, Sanders turned his attention to the Democratic Party, urging its leaders to find a new voice capable of reconnecting with working-class Americans.

“We need an opposition party that’s effective — not just reactive,” he said. “Democrats must learn how to speak to ordinary people again. They’ve lost that language, and it’s costing the country.”

Sanders’ comments arrive at a moment of growing political tension in the United States. With the 2026 midterms looming and Trump continuing to dominate the conservative base, many within both parties are questioning the future of American leadership.

Political analysts suggest Sanders’ remarks could signal a larger cultural shift — one where sports figures, long hesitant to wade into politics, now feel compelled to speak out on issues of democracy and accountability.

While Sanders stopped short of announcing any political ambitions, his message was unmistakable: complacency is no longer an option.

“We can’t afford silence,” he said. “Whether you coach football, run a company, or sit in Congress — if you see what’s wrong and do nothing, you’re part of the problem.”