Monday 9 October 2017 10:18, UK
US vice president Mike Pence walked out of an NFL game on Sunday in his home state of Indiana after some players knelt during the national anthem.
Kneeling during the anthem before NFL games began last year as a symbolic protest against perceived police violence and racial injustice.
The protests were started by former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and have become a source of huge controversy in the USA this year after President Donald Trump called on owners to fire players who participate in them.
Pence left Sunday's game between the Indianapolis Colts and the 49ers after more than 20 of the 49ers players knelt during the song.
Pence said in a statement: "I left today's Colts game because President Trump and I will not dignify any event that disrespects our soldiers, our Flag, or our National Anthem.
"At a time when so many Americans are inspiring our nation with their courage, resolve and resilience, now, more than ever, we should rally around our Flag and everything that unites us.
"While everyone is entitled to their own opinions, I don't think it's too much to ask NFL players to respect the Flag and our National Anthem.
"I stand with President Trump, I stand with our soldiers, and I will always stand for our Flag and our National Anthem."
Trump tweeted later: "I asked @VP Pence to leave stadium if any players kneeled, disrespecting our country.
"I am proud of him and @SecondLady Karen."
