Highlights:
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JD Vance says athletes should expect “pushback” if they speak on politics
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President Donald Trump called skier Hunter Hess “a real Loser”
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Hunter Hess said he had “mixed emotions” about representing the U.S.
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Political tensions surfaced during the opening ceremony in Milan
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Debate over political activism at the Olympics continues
Vice President JD Vance said U.S. Olympic athletes who step into political debates during international competition should be prepared for criticism. Speaking after leading the American delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics, JD Vance made clear that athletes representing the United States abroad should expect scrutiny if they comment on domestic politics.
JD Vance addressed reporters on February 11 while returning from an overseas trip tied to the Winter Games. His remarks followed controversy involving U.S. freestyle halfpipe skier Hunter Hess, who publicly shared concerns about the political climate in the United States.
“So when Olympic athletes enter the political arena, they should expect some pushback,” JD Vance told reporters. He added, “You’re not there to pop off about politics.”
JD Vance responds to Hunter Hess controversy
The comments from JD Vance came after Hunter Hess said he had “mixed emotions” about competing for Team USA. In an earlier statement, Hess said: “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of.” He continued: “Wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.”
Hess’ remarks prompted a response from President Donald Trump, who called the skier “a real Loser.”
The skier later addressed the criticism on social media, clarifying his position. “I love my my country… but there are always things that could be better,” Hess wrote. He added: “One of the many things that makes this country so amazing is that we have the right and the freedom to point that out.”
JD Vance did not directly criticize Hess by name in his comments to reporters but said that athletes who engage in political discussion should not be surprised by public reaction. According to JD Vance, participation in global sporting events comes with heightened visibility and accountability.
JD Vance and the broader debate over Olympic activism
JD Vance acknowledged that politics and international sporting events have often intersected. However, he suggested that athletes representing the United States should prioritize unity while competing on the global stage. His remarks reflect a broader national debate about the role of free speech and political activism in sports.
The issue of athlete expression has gained attention in recent years as Olympians and professional athletes have used their platforms to address social and political issues. JD Vance’s comments signal that the current administration expects athletes to be mindful of the setting and potential consequences of political statements during international competition.
The controversy unfolded during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, part of the Milano Cortina Games. Political tensions were also visible during the opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium, where JD Vance appeared on the jumbotron. Some members of the crowd reportedly booed during the appearance.
JD Vance addressed that reaction as well. He said he “had a great time at the Olympics” and dismissed coverage of the incident. “I think the media made much ado about nothing with the fact that, yes, in a crowd of 30,000 people, there were certainly some people who disagreed with my policies or the policies of the administration,” Vance said.
JD Vance emphasizes expectations for Team USA athletes
JD Vance’s remarks underline the administration’s view that Olympic athletes serve as representatives of the country while competing abroad. His warning that athletes should expect “pushback” if they engage in political commentary highlights ongoing tensions between national representation and individual expression.
Supporters of athlete activism argue that global events like the Olympics provide a platform for free speech and social commentary. Others contend that the Games should remain focused on athletic performance and national unity.
The exchange between JD Vance, Hunter Hess, and President Donald Trump has reignited discussion over the boundaries of political expression at international sporting events. With the 2026 Winter Games drawing global attention, the role of athletes in political conversations remains a central issue.
As preparations continue and competition unfolds, JD Vance’s comments make clear that political statements made by Team USA athletes are likely to draw scrutiny. The debate over whether Olympians should separate competition from politics shows no sign of fading.
