Chloe Kim Responds to Trump’s Criticism of Hunter Hess: ‘It Hits Home’

Chloe Kim, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, recently responded to criticism from former President Donald Trump regarding her teammate Hunter Hess. After Trump labeled Hess a “real Loser” for expressing his views on representing the United States at the upcoming Winter Olympics, Kim voiced her support for athletes’ rights to share their opinions. In a press conference held in Livigno, Italy, the 25-year-old snowboarder emphasized the importance of unity and compassion in the face of a divisive political climate.

Chloe Kim’s Pride in Representation

Chloe Kim, aiming for her third consecutive gold medal in the halfpipe event, noted the significance of her immigrant background. Her parents, Jong Jim Kim and Boran Yun Kim, came to the U.S. from South Korea in 1982, making Kim’s connection to her heritage particularly meaningful. “This hits pretty close to home,” she stated, highlighting the need for athletes to stand together in challenging times.

Hunter Hess and the Olympic Debate

Hunter Hess, a freestyle skier set to compete in the men’s halfpipe on February 19, acknowledged the difficulties of representing the U.S. amidst current political tensions. He mentioned that while he proudly wears the American flag, he doesn’t agree with everything happening in the country. His statement drew criticism from Trump, who felt Hess should not have made the Olympic team if he disagreed with the nation’s political climate.

Support from Teammates

• Maddie Mastro (25): Expressed sadness about the situation in the U.S. while affirming her pride in representing Team USA.
• Bea Kim (17): Highlighted the diversity in the U.S. as a strength and emphasized the unique opportunities available in the country.
• Maddy Schaffrick (31): Celebrated the Olympics as a platform for international unity and friendly competition.

The sentiments shared by Kim and her teammates reflect a desire for compassion and understanding during times of national division. They collectively represent a new generation of athletes who are navigating personal beliefs while proudly competing on a global stage. As the Winter Olympics approach, their voices contribute to a broader conversation about national identity and the role of athletes in society.