Former ESPN personality Sarah Spain recently shared her discontent about an unexpected encounter with prominent political figures while covering the US women’s hockey team at the Winter Olympics in Italy. During a segment of her podcast, “Good Game with Sarah Spain,” she recounted her discomfort at sitting near Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, describing the experience as one of the “low lights” of the event.
Spain noted that 12 minutes into the first period, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when a large contingent of Secret Service agents filled the area around her. This marked the arrival of Vance, who she observed carrying a child, followed closely by other security personnel and Rubio. Spain expressed her dismay, stating, “When I see JD Vance’s eyeliner face, I literally feel ill,” and elaborated on her discomfort, comparing her reaction to what one might feel in a situation that seems inherently wrong or threatening.
The former “Around the Horn” panelist went on to describe her physical response as akin to feeling spooked, as if the energy in the room had shifted unfavorably. She emphasized that she was unprepared for the sight of Vance, labeling him as exuding “demon energy.” Spain wasn’t just frustrated by their presence; she also voiced her annoyance at the obstructed view caused by Vance’s extensive security detail, which she claimed interfered with her ability to watch the hockey game.
Spain further criticized the photographers present at the event, who she observed focusing their cameras on Vance and Rubio rather than capturing the ongoing hockey action. This situation compounded her frustrations as she felt it detracted from the experience of watching the game.
Despite the tensions, Vance, along with his wife Usha and their children, attended the game to support Team USA. During the pre-game festivities, Vance spoke to the athletes, encouraging them to enjoy the experience and expressing the support of the entire country, regardless of political affiliation. He said, “I hope you just soak it all in. I hope you win as many medals as possible… we’re all rooting for you, and we know you’re going to make us proud.”
Spain’s experience reflects not just the challenges of covering sports at such high-profile events but also showcases the complex dynamics that arise when politics intersect with athletics.