The highest-ranking official with the NFL is defending the Washington Redskins name amid criticism from members of Congress.

The Redskins name is "a unifying force that stands for strength, courage, pride and respect," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a letter to 10 members of Congress, USA Today reported. He said the mascot, which is opposed by nearly every inter-tribal organization, is not offensive to Native Americans.

Dan Snyder, the owner of the team, has not responded to the members of Congress who called on him to drop the name. He has said he will "never" get rid of the Redskins mascot.

A Republican-led firm is conducting a survey about the Redskins, Think Progress reported.

Get the Story:
Goodell defends Redskins name in letter to Congress (USA Today 6/12)
Top Republican Messaging Firm To Hold Football Focus Group About Whether Redskins Should Change Name (Think Progress 6/11)
Congress Members Respond to NFL Commissioner's Support for 'Redskins' Name (Indian Country Today 6/11)
NFL Commissioner Tells Congress 'Redskins' Is a Positive Name (Indian Country Today 6/11)

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Opinion: Time might be running out for racist 'Redskins' mascot (06/03)
The Hill: Obama asked for opinion on use of Redskins mascot (5/31)
Blog: Del. Holmes Norton questions owner of Redskins team (5/31)
Blog: Retired chief of Virginia tribe supports 'Redskins' name (5/30)
Suzan Harjo: Evidence supports removal of Redskins name (5/29)