American skier Hunter Hess suddenly remembered what it means to wear red, white, and blue after facing backlash from President Donald Trump and others over his “mixed emotions” about representing the United States at the Olympics. Funny how that works—nothing sharpens patriotic clarity quite like a little public accountability.
Hess originally told reporters he had conflicted feelings about competing for the U.S. at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, saying there was “a lot going on” that he was “not the biggest fan of.” That comment didn’t sit well with many Americans—or with President Trump—who made his displeasure clear.
A few days later, Hess appeared to walk things back. In a message posted with an American flag emoji (always a strong start), he wrote, “I love my country,” adding that while America has flaws, it also has the freedom to point them out. He said the Olympics bring people together and that he “cannot wait to represent Team USA next week when I compete.” So, from “mixed emotions” to “I love my country” in record time—must be an Olympic-level turnaround.
Hess’ initial remarks came as the Trump administration faced criticism over Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. The incidents involving Renee Good in Minnesota and Alex Pretti were referenced as part of the broader context that influenced Hess and his teammate Chris Lillis. Hess said those situations made it “a little hard” to represent the U.S., explaining that he felt he was more representing his friends and family than everything happening in the country.
He added that wearing the flag does not mean he supports everything going on in the U.S., but rather what he believes is good about it. After the backlash, though, his tone shifted clearly toward pride and unity, emphasizing the freedom and values that make America “so amazing.”
At the end of the day, Hess will be competing for Team USA, and his final message is one of national pride and togetherness. That’s exactly what the Olympics are about—Americans standing tall, representing their country on the world stage, and reminding everyone that despite disagreements, the stars and stripes still mean something worth skiing for.
