Vice President JD Vance addressed Team USA athletes following a noticeable crowd reaction during the Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Milan. Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, were present to support American competitors when some members of the audience responded with boos, a moment commentators described as a mixed reception. In remarks afterward during an appearance on CNN, Vance encouraged athletes to keep their attention on competition rather than political debate. “You’re there to represent your country and hopefully win a medal,” he said. “You’re not there to get involved in politics.”
Vance emphasized that athletes competing under the U.S. flag represent Americans across the political spectrum. “When you represent the country, you represent Democrats and Republicans,” he noted, adding that public political expression at global events often draws strong reactions. Despite the moment in Milan, he praised the dedication of American competitors, saying they continue to earn broad support from fans nationwide. His comments came as some athletes acknowledged feeling the weight of representing the country during a period of heightened political division.
Among them, curler Richard Ruohonen shared that he hopes to embody respect and compassion on the international stage. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess described representing the United States as bringing “mixed emotions,” reflecting the complex atmosphere surrounding global sporting events. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump publicly questioned reports of booing and voiced support for Team USA, underscoring the broader political conversation tied to the Games.
Olympic officials have reiterated that the focus of the event remains competition, unity, and sportsmanship. The International Olympic Committee emphasized fair play and continued collaboration with participating nations, including the United States, as future Olympic planning moves ahead. As the Games continue, athletes remain at the center of attention — striving for excellence while navigating the unique pressures that accompany representing their country on the world stage.