Marco Rubio Performed Gator Chomp at NYSE
The Secretary of State celebrated his alma mater following the Florida Gators' recent entry into the AP Poll.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Football
Secretary of State Marco Rubio performed the Gator chomp gesture while ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on September 21. The public display followed the Florida Gators football team earning the 21st spot in the latest AP Poll.
Why it matters
The celebratory gesture highlighted the rising profile of the University of Florida football team following a victory over Auburn. It occurred while Rubio was in town attending the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The Florida Gators currently hold a 3-0 season record and occupy the 21st position in the AP Poll. They are scheduled to face Ole Miss, who is currently ranked 4th, this coming Saturday.
The players
Marco Rubio
Marco Rubio is the Secretary of State and a graduate of the University of Florida.
Florida Gators
The Florida Gators are the intercollegiate football team representing the University of Florida.
The details
Marco Rubio, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Florida, performed the team's signature gesture during the opening ceremony at the New York Stock Exchange. The team's momentum includes a recent defeat of Auburn on September 19, which helped propel them into the national rankings.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Florida defeated Auburn in a football game.
September 20, 2026: Florida entered the AP Poll.
September 21, 2026: Marco Rubio rang the NYSE opening bell.
September 26, 2026: Florida hosts Ole Miss in a football game.
Season Trajectory
The Florida Gators' rise to the 21st spot in the AP Poll shifts the narrative of their current season as they prepare for a high-stakes matchup against 4th-ranked Ole Miss. This trajectory tests the team's competitive standing against top-tier conference rivals.
The jump to the 21st spot in the AP Poll forces a re-evaluation of the team's postseason potential ahead of the game against 4th-ranked Ole Miss. Analysts are tracking the performance of players like senior running back Anthony Rubio as the Gators look to maintain their undefeated 3-0 record.
The takeaway
The event underscores the intersection of national political figures and collegiate sports fandom. Fans should monitor the upcoming matchup against Ole Miss to see if the team can maintain its momentum after entering the national rankings.
What happens next
The Florida Gators are scheduled to host the Ole Miss football team in a game on September 26, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the latest college standings, visit the Football section.
