Vice President JD Vance recently addressed the intersection of politics and sports as he cautioned U.S. Olympic athletes about the potential backlash they may face if they engage in political discourse during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Vance, who was leading the U.S. delegation, expressed his thoughts in response to freestyle halfpipe skier Hunter Hess, who had openly shared his mixed feelings about representing the United States amidst current political issues.
“You’re not there to pop off about politics,” Vance stated during a press briefing on February 11, emphasizing that athletes should expect some “pushback” when entering the political arena. This remark came after former President Donald Trump criticized Hess for his comments regarding his conflicted feelings about representing the U.S., saying, “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of.”
Hess had commented on the complexities of wearing the American flag, indicating that it doesn’t necessarily mean he supports every aspect of the country, a sentiment that reached Trump’s attention. The president subsequently labeled Hess as “a real Loser,” leading the skier to clarify his stance on social media, expressing love for his country while advocating for the freedom to critique it.
Despite the controversy, Vance highlighted the importance of athletes uniting the nation through their performances rather than creating divisions. His remarks were made against the backdrop of a tense political climate that has often overshadowed the Olympic spirit.
During the opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium, Vance faced boos from the audience, a reaction he downplayed, asserting that it was part of a larger crowd of 30,000, and he enjoyed the occasion. He remarked that the media may have exaggerated the significance of the crowd’s reaction toward his appearance.
As the Olympics continue, the balance between athletic achievement and political expression remains a hot topic, inviting both support and criticism for athletes who choose to voice their opinions in the global spotlight.