“If you’re a real fan, you know that I’m not just like… my job is not to sign autographs, right? My job is to drive a car and to tell the crew chief what’s going on. I don’t appreciate the booing.” This is how Danica Patrick responded to the 2017 Pocono controversy, when her security entourage prevented fans from having her autograph. In a sport like NASCAR, where drivers and fans share a special bond, this gesture was seen as disrespectful, and this was just another moment when Patrick became the polarizing figure of the sport.
Even when she switched lanes and took on the broadcasting role with Sky Sports to cover Formula 1, the backlash continued. But in 2025, something has changed, and motorsport fans seem to be finally rallying behind her and, surprisingly, it is for non-sporting reasons.
Last Thursday, she made a visit to the White House for the Make America Healthy Again Commission event. The former SHR driver had distanced herself from politics for a long time, but this time around she felt the need to step in support the initiatives planned by the Trump Administration. Now, Patrick is an extremely fit athlete; she might not be racing anymore, but her diet and fitness routine that she shares on Instagram go to show how invested she is in living a healthy life. And now that the government is taking the initiative, she is all for it.
“It was a monumental day in Washington DC with the release of the MAHA commission report! The turnout was incredible…. Not only from passionate health experts but from so many within the government itself wanting to make American healthy again. And most importantly, the children. Thank you @robertfkennedyjr for your unwavering resolve to this cause, @brookelrollins for the support and vision of the American ranchers and farmers, and to @realdonaldtrump for supporting the mission,” Patrick wrote on Instagram while sharing the photos from her visit to the White House.
She also shared some alarming statistics that highlighted the need for social health reform. “1/4 young girls are on anti depressants and 1/4 young boys are on ADHD medication. Obesity is a wildly huge problem. And in our country we pay between 10-13x more for medication than in other countries… he way forward is clear but cluttered with challenges. To all who are in power, you have an army of people who have your back. And what I look forward to for the most…. Is what more we will do as a country when we are healthy. Because when you are merely surviving you are not thriving.”
Well, this was the turning point when the fans who once criticized her now saw the real hope and value she is trying to promote with the MAHA initiative. And this was evident from the comments.
Fans rally behind Danica Patrick’s efforts to make America healthier
The fan reactions to her post are a mix of awe and gratitude, showing just how much her new role means to her supporters. “Thank you for supporting wellness in the interest of the common good! Thank you for using your good name to better the lives of the American people. As a dad to three girls, thank you for being an inspiration to young women,” one fan wrote in the comments. Another chimed in, “So much more credibility for this girl! She has it together! You’re doing great things @danicapatrick and I’m here for it! Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to this movement,” praising her authenticity and commitment.
A third fan shared, “It was wonderful meeting you @danicapatrick! Thank you for your time and for sharing your story with us! Excited to be on this MAHA movement with you,” capturing the personal connection Danica’s forging through her advocacy. The Make America Healthy Again movement, backed by RFK Jr., is all about tackling the chronic disease epidemic that’s gripping the nation: obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which affect 60% of Americans. A recent MAHA report revealed that 74% of adults are overweight or obese, and 50% of kids are on track for chronic illnesses, stats that hit hard and align with Danica’s own passion for wellness as a yoga enthusiast and health advocate.
Danica’s involvement with the Trump administration isn’t new, she’s been a vocal supporter since 2024, speaking at campaign events in Arizona and even voting for the first time in her life for Trump. “I guess I’m in politics now,” she joked on Riley Gaines’ podcast, reflecting on her shift from political indifference to full-on activism.
She is not just talking the talk—she’s walking the walk, and fans are noticing. Her MAHA advocacy ties into her personal brand of resilience, the same grit that saw her become the most successful woman in American open-wheel racing with that 2008 IndyCar win. The criticism she’s faced as an F1 commentator, often overshadowed by her political stances, hasn’t fazed her—she’s stayed true to her beliefs, and that’s what’s earning her this rare moment of respect. From the racetrack to the political stage, Danica Patrick’s proving she’s still a force to be reckoned with, and America’s cheering her on as she fights for a healthier future.
The post Danica Patrick Earns Rare Moment of Respect From America as She Vows to Fight for a Great Cause appeared first on EssentiallySports.
