NFL icon Rob Gronkowski clarifies Turning Point USA stance after 'being outed as MAGA'

Rob Gronkowski has cleared the air following speculation of his rumoured association with MAGA and Turning Point USA.

The NFL star, who played nine seasons for the New England Patriots, was pictured with his girlfriend Camille Kostek outside a Hampshire polling spot on Tuesday (3 November).

Photos and videos circulating on social media showed the 37-year-old posed with MAGA fans and signed merchandise in front of a tent associated with Turning Point, founded by the late Charlie Kirk and now run by his wife Erika Kirk.

On Friday, the four-time Super Bowl champion said it ‘has been upsetting and eye opening to see the narratives around my visit to NH on Election Day with Camille’.

“In regard to the images and videos circulating we are not endorsed by or affiliated with Turning Point USA,” a statement put on his Instagram Story read.

“After stopping at Goffstown high school we crossed the street to greet excited fans yelling out our names before leaving to the next location. We simply took some pictures and I signed some things for them before leaving.

“We took photos with people across the political spectrum throughout that morning.

“We cannot control what the media has made of it and running with - so we are here to shut down the false narratives.

“It's disappointing to see an innocent moment stripped of context and turned into clickbait.

“Our message has always been and always will be to treat everyone with kindness and hope you all will do the same.”

Kostek, 34, reposted Gronkowski’s statement on her own social media account.

A spokesperson for Turning Point also confirmed to CBS News that Gronkowski was not with their group, but did walk by their tent.

Speculation came after Gronkowski took a photo with Karina Nicholas, the Communications Director for the New Hampshire Republican Party.

She posted the photo on X with the caption: “You never know who you will run into on Election Day!”

“My message out here in New Hampshire is just to go out there and vote. It doesn’t matter what party you’re voting for. It’s just important that you go out there and vote, and that’s what it’s all about,” Gronkowski said in Bedford.

“Today, this is a special morning. We’re out here, it’s a beautiful day out, and it’s bringing people together, and it’s awesome.”

Bedford police said there was ‘heavy traffic’ at the polls where Gronkowski talked to voters.

"If you plan on voting today or are traveling in the area, please give yourself extra time," police said. "Rob Gronkowski is no longer at the High School. He is not expected to return."