• President Trump labels skier Hunter Hess a "real loser" for his comments on representing the U.S.
• Hess expressed mixed emotions about donning the U.S. flag at the Winter Olympics.
• Political tensions surrounding the Games include concerns over ICE involvement.
• Fellow skier Chris Lillis echoed similar sentiments regarding respect for rights in America.

President Donald Trump publicly criticized U.S. Olympic skier Hunter Hess, describing him as a “real loser” for expressing mixed feelings about representing the country at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. Trump posted his remarks on his Truth Social media platform, stating, “If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it,” highlighting his disapproval of Hess’ sentiments about representing the U.S. amidst current political turmoil, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

Hess had previously mentioned at a press conference, “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren’t,” indicating the struggles he feels while representing the U.S. at such a time. He emphasized that wearing the flag does not equate to agreeing with all aspects of the country’s actions, a sentiment echoed by fellow skier Chris Lillis, who expressed disappointment about the current political climate and its impact on representation, according to ABC News, Reuters, and South China Morning Post.

The political tensions surrounding the Winter Games have heightened, especially in light of concerns over the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel. There have been protests against ICE due to past violent incidents, raising issues regarding the agency's involvement in a security capacity during the Games, as reported by Reuters and South China Morning Post.