Can a Washington home win predict the outcome of the presidential election?

WASHINGTON — After the Commanders last-second victory over the Chicago Bears, you may have seen the phrase "Redskins Rule" trending on your social media pages. The long-running football superstition suggests Washington's win could predict the outcome of the presidential race.

The "Redskins Rule" links Washington's last home game before a presidential election to the election outcome. Historically, when the team won, the incumbent party was predicted to keep the White House. When Washington lost, it pointed to a win for the opposition. 

This quirky trend held true for decades, from 1940 through 2000. It became a political bellwether for sports and election fans alike. However, since 2004, the "rule" has flipped.

Now, Washington's wins now supposedly signal victory for the challenging party. For example, wins in 2016 and 2020 preceded Donald Trump and Joe Biden's victories. Losses in 2004 and 2012 saw George W. Bush and Barack Obama reelected. 

The Commanders got one of the biggest home wins in history against the Bears in Week 8.

As Election Day looms, the question remains: Is the trend still flipped, or has it gone back to the original?

While it may be just a fun coincidence, the "rule" has aligned with 17 of the last 19 elections, adding a bit of intrigue to this year's matchup with history.