Trump Slams Olympian Hunter Hess Over “Mixed Feelings” Representing US
Hunter Hess, the US freestyle skier competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics, has found himself in the middle of a heated political storm. His recent comments about the challenges of representing the United States have drawn sharp criticism from former President Donald Trump and others, igniting a debate over athletes, patriotism and politics on the world stage.
Hess spoke openly during a press conference, explaining that competing under the US flag felt complicated given the current climate in the country. He acknowledged pride in representing his friends, family and the positive values of America, but also admitted it was “a little hard” to reconcile everything happening nationally and globally. He didn’t shy away from expressing mixed emotions, emphasizing that wearing the flag doesn’t mean he endorses every action or policy of the government.
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Trump responded on Truth Social, labeling Hess a “real loser” and questioning why he even tried out for Team USA. He argued that Hess’s ambivalence makes it difficult for fans to support him. Tennessee Republican Representative Tim Burchett also criticized the skier, suggesting he should “shut up and go play in the snow.” This public backlash highlights the tension athletes face when speaking candidly about their personal feelings toward their country, especially during high-profile international events like the Olympics.
Hess is not alone in navigating this delicate balance. Other US Olympians have expressed similar struggles. Figure skating champion Amber Glenn recently announced a break from social media after receiving overwhelming online hate, underscoring the personal toll of public scrutiny. Two-time Olympic skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin has also shared her perspective, focusing on representing her own values of diversity, kindness and teamwork rather than the political controversies surrounding the country.
This controversy raises broader questions about the role of athletes as public figures and symbols of national pride. The Olympics are meant to celebrate excellence and unity, yet political realities inevitably influence how athletes experience representation. Hess’s situation highlights the growing pressure on sports figures to align personal beliefs with public expectations, often under intense media and political scrutiny.
As the Winter Olympics continue, all eyes will remain on Hess and other athletes navigating this complex landscape. Their performances on the slopes may be accompanied by broader conversations about identity, representation and the responsibilities of being a global symbol of a nation.
Stay with us as we track developments in this story, watch the reactions unfold and bring you the latest updates from the heart of the 2026 Winter Games.
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