Hunter Hess, a 27-year-old freestyle skier competing in the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, voiced his discomfort in representing the United States during a press conference on June 6. He noted that he feels more connected to his home community and the values he believes in than to the current political climate in America, stating, "I think many share that feeling." His comments suggest a deeper critique of the ongoing political conflicts in the U.S.

In response to Hess's remarks, former President Donald Trump labeled him a "real loser" on his social media platform Truth Social, arguing that if Hess feels disconnected from representing the U.S., he should not have participated in the Olympic trials. This exchange illustrates the intersection of sports and politics, particularly in how athletes perceive their roles as representatives of their country amidst rising political tensions.

Hess's statements, along with comments from teammate Chris Lillis, who emphasized the need to respect the rights of all individuals, point to a collective stance among athletes that contrasts sharply with the policies propagated during the Trump administration, specifically its hardline immigration approaches. Recent protests and violent clashes in the U.S. have heightened these discussions, showcasing how Olympic platforms are becoming arenas for broader societal debates.