What started as a simple birthday gathering quickly spiraled into a shocking encounter that left a retired detective reeling.
In a city accustomed to debate and clashing opinions, no one expects a party hat to spark violence—but that is precisely what unfolded when a political slogan provoked an unexpected reaction.
A Celebration Turns Confrontational
Retired NYPD Detective Daniel Sprague was celebrating his birthday when he became the target of an assault—all because of the red “Make Fifty Great Again” hat he wore. The hat, a gift from his wife, was paired with a shirt bearing the American flag and the words, “Making America Great Since 1970.”
The incident occurred at The Stage on Broadway. A woman approached Sprague, grabbed his hat, and struck him in the face.
“I was outside with my friends when someone spun me around and hit me,” Sprague recalled. “At first, I thought it was a joke or a friend—but then I realized they were serious. I couldn’t believe anyone could be that angry over a hat.”
Both Sprague and the woman were removed from the venue, which delayed his ability to contact the police. He later filed a report with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. The report detailed: “Suspect grabbed his hat from his head and punched him in the face. He did not hit her back.”
Mixed Reactions
Throughout the evening, Sprague said he received a variety of responses. Many guests smiled or gave thumbs up, while others expressed disapproval. Yet nothing escalated to violence until the moment the hat came into close view.
“All night people were reacting—some positive, some negative—but it wasn’t until they got close and read my hat that the situation turned physical. Ironically, most still wished me a happy birthday afterward,” he explained.
Sprague emphasized that his political support does not justify aggression. “I love Trump, but I would never hit someone wearing a Bernie hat. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I wasn’t an Obama fan, but I would have shown respect if he walked in,” he said.
After the attack, Sprague shared the incident on Facebook, posting photos of his bloodied face and noting he was awaiting contact from Nashville detectives. He later removed the post.
Conclusion
A night meant for celebration became a stark illustration of how deeply political tensions can escalate—even over a seemingly trivial gesture. Sprague’s experience serves as a reminder that differing opinions, no matter how passionately held, can never justify violence. Civility and respect must remain at the heart of public discourse—even when politics divide us.