In the weeks following President Donald Trump's congratulatory call to the U.S. men's Olympic hockey team for their gold medal win, the President faced criticism for neglecting to recognize the women's team that achieved a similar feat just days prior. Critics labeled his comments as disrespectful, suggesting a disregard for the women's team's accomplishments. Trump, while inviting the men's team to the State of the Union, quipped that he would need to invite the women's team too, implying political ramifications if he failed to do so.

Ellen Hughes, a player development consultant for Team USA women's hockey and the mother of NHL player Jack Hughes, responded gracefully to the controversy surrounding Trump’s remarks. She emphasized that both men's and women's hockey teams have the ability to foster unity and draw in fans from diverse backgrounds, regardless of political affiliations. Her comments were aimed at showcasing the positive impact that sports can have in bringing people together and shifting the focus from the political discourse surrounding the event.

Through her statements on the 'TODAY' show, Ellen Hughes called attention to the importance of celebrating both teams' achievements instead of creating division over a political commentary. Her perspective serves to reinforce the notion that sports can transcend politics, potentially even serving as a catalyst for unity at a time when divisions seem more pronounced than ever.