Donald Trump publicly addressed the controversy surrounding U.S. Olympian Hunter Hess following remarks Hess made about competing for Team USA during a tense political climate. The president responded with sharp criticism, weighing in on the skier’s comments about national representation at the Winter Olympics.
Donald Trump calls out Hunter Hess
During the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Team USA freestyle skier Hunter Hess over remarks made about representing the country amid political tensions. “Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn’t represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it,” Trump posted on Truth Social. He added, “Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Hess had stated at a press conference that representing the U.S. came with “mixed emotions,” citing his disagreement with current immigration policies. “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of,” he said. “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the US.”
Trump’s response followed public criticism from other conservative figures, including Representative Tim Burchett, who wrote on X, “Shut up and go play in the snow.”
YouTuber Jake Paul, who was later seen sitting beside Vice President JD Vance at a U.S. women’s hockey game, posted, “From all true Americans: If you don’t want to represent this country go live somewhere else.”
Freestyle skier Chris Lillis also criticized ICE enforcement. “We need to focus on respecting everybody’s rights,” he said.
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee acknowledged the rise in online abuse targeting athletes. It confirmed coordination with law enforcement to ensure their protection. “The USOPC stands firmly behind Team USA athletes and remains committed to their well-being and safety,” a spokesperson stated, per ESPN.
