You have to remember, starting around the 1900's, the government religion has been getting the kids when they're young. Most people are forced into government buildings to be "schooled" for about 18 years.
Government is always scheming to *get the kids younger and younger too. Universal Pre-K is the new thing.
Perhaps someday a government agent will be in every hospital delivery room. Who knows?
But for 18 years, in those government "schools," every single day starts with rising at your desk, and saying your morning prayer to the state --- known as the pledge of allegiance.
Do morning prayers happen once a year? Once a month? Once a week?
No!
Every single day.
By the time you're an adult, your ability to contemplate freedom, private property and voluntary contracts has been considerably diminished.
"Of course everyone must stand for the National Anthem --- And of course the President should force them."
We naturally would never come to such a conclusion. We'd have to be "schooled" first.
So while the president's words might just be words (for now) we should always be vigilant against taking them any further.
Private Property ... Freedom to think and make your own choices ... Voluntary Contracts ... Anything that's peaceful ... Live and Let Live.
Those are the ideas that are far more attractive than "Get that son of a _____ off the field..."
Stand Because The Politician Says So?