Trump's Unusual Compliment to Danica Patrick Sparks Online Reactions

At a Turning Point USA event, President Trump made headlines for complimenting Danica Patrick's hair, diverting from his speech. This unexpected remark drew a range of reactions online, with many criticizing his focus on her appearance rather than her achievements. Patrick, a trailblazer in racing and a vocal Trump supporter, has a remarkable career and a significant fortune. This incident adds to Trump's history of commenting on women's looks, raising eyebrows and sparking discussions about his remarks. Read on to explore the full story and the reactions it generated.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 19, 2026, 04:37 IST

Trump's Unexpected Praise

During a recent Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, President Donald Trump caught attention not for his policies but for a surprising remark about Danica Patrick, a former race car driver and ardent supporter. Spotting Patrick in the audience, Trump diverted from his speech to compliment her, specifically highlighting her hair.

"Where's Danica? I love Danica," he exclaimed from the stage. "I love her hair. I always liked her hair. I always liked the little widow's peak."

Who Is Danica Patrick?

At 44, Patrick is not just any fan; she made history as the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race at the age of 26. She later transitioned to the NASCAR Cup Series, where she participated in 191 races, achieving seven top-10 finishes and one pole position before retiring from racing in 2018. Following her racing career, she became a Formula 1 commentator for Sky Sports. Patrick has amassed an estimated fortune of $80 million through various endorsements, modeling, her athleisure clothing line, and her own wine brand, according to reports. She is also a staunch supporter of Trump, having referred to him as the "best president we've ever had" and endorsing him for 2024, calling him a "rational, reasonable choice."

Online Reactions to Trump's Comment

Trump's remarks about Patrick's hair did not sit well with many online, leading to a mix of eye-rolls and ridicule. One user on X remarked, "OK, not pervy at all," while another quipped, "Always about the hair." A third user simply stated, "He has a hair fetish." Many pointed out that with Patrick's impressive racing career, business achievements, and intelligence, Trump chose to focus on her hairline instead.

A Pattern of Comments

This incident is not an isolated one; Trump has a history of making comments about women's appearances. He has previously commented on White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's lips, likening their movement to that of a "machine gun." In another instance, when a female reporter posed a question, Trump seemed to listen briefly before turning to Vice President JD Vance, stating, "I just like to watch her talk," without addressing her question.