Overview
- Vice President JD Vance told reporters that Olympians are "not there to pop off about politics" and said those who weigh in should expect pushback.
- His comments followed public remarks by Team USA athletes Hunter Hess, Chris Lillis, Amber Glenn, and Rich Ruohonen expressing concern about the U.S. political climate.
- President Donald Trump previously attacked Hess on Truth Social, calling the freestyle skier "a real loser."
- Hess later emphasized his love of country, while his father told a local newspaper that the athlete received death threats; Glenn also reported receiving threats after her statements.
- Vance was booed at the opening ceremony and later downplayed the reaction, as his remarks drew criticism across social media and in press coverage.