US Olympians speaking up about politics at home face online backlash — including from Trump

Associated Press (AP)EN 4 min read 100% complete by By FERNANDA FIGUEROAFebruary 8, 2026 at 09:23 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Several U.S. Olympians at the Milan Cortina Games are facing online backlash after speaking out about U.S. policies. At a press conference, freestyle skiers Hunter Hess and Chris Lillis expressed concerns about representing the U.S. given the current political climate and immigration enforcement. Hess stated he only represents aspects of the U.S. that align with his morals. Former President Donald Trump criticized Hess's comments, calling him a "loser" and suggesting he shouldn't have joined the team. Other public figures, like Jake Paul, also criticized Hess on social media. Lillis voiced heartbreak over the situation in the U.S. and emphasized the importance of respecting everyone's rights.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Amber Glenn 30% JD Vance 40% Immigration and Customs Enforcement 40% Chris Lillis ×240% Jake Paul 50% Milan ×260% United States ×470% Hunter Hess ×680% Donald Trump ×390%

Keywords

olympics 90% political activism 80% online backlash 80% donald trump 70% u.s. olympians 70% immigration enforcement 60% moral values 50% lgbtq+ community 40% freestyle skiing 40%