American snowboarder Chloe Kim refused to be pulled into a political spectacle during a media session at the 2026 Winter Games, even as a controversial question attempted to stir division among U.S. athletes. The two time Olympic gold medalist stayed composed, steady, and clear about what representing her country means to her.
The exchange unfolded at a press conference in Livigno, Italy, where several American athletes faced the question that has been following Team USA all week: how they feel about representing the United States amid a tense political climate back home.
A female reporter asked the panel how they “feel representing Team USA right now.”
The question has become the most debated and polarizing inquiry at these Games. But Kim’s answer offered something far more personal and grounded than the political reaction many expected.
Kim Emphasizes Unity, Opportunity, and Compassion
When Kim began speaking, she made it clear that the issue resonated deeply with her.
“Obviously my parents being immigrants, this one definitely hits pretty close to home,” Kim began. “I think in moments like these, it is really important for us to unite and kind of stand up for one another for all that’s going on.”
Her message was calm but purposeful. She did not deny the complexity of the moment. She did not try to pacify the debate either. Instead, she acknowledged both the privilege and the responsibility of competing under the American flag.
“I’m really proud to represent the United States. The U.S. has given my family and I so much opportunity. But I also think that we are allowed to voice our opinions on what’s going on,” the 25 year old added. “And I think that we need to lead with love and compassion. And I would love to see some more of that.”
Her response was thoughtful and firm. It also did not deliver the sensational headline the reporter appeared to be fishing for.
Context: A Tense Backdrop and a Viral Comment
The reporter posed her question only moments after bringing up a political flashpoint that had set off a firestorm online. She reminded the room that President Donald Trump had recently called Kim’s “teammate” Hunter Hess “a real loser.”
Hess, an American freestyle skier, previously told reporters that he had “mixed emotions” about representing the United States. Trump replied sharply on social media.
“U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn’t represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The comment brought intense scrutiny to all American Olympians, even those who had not spoken about politics at all. Hess later clarified his own feelings, telling followers that he loves the country despite having concerns. He wrote, “But there are always things that could be better.”
Kim Stays Anchored in Her Mission at the Games
Kim, born in Torrance, California, is attempting to defend her dominance in the women’s snowboard half pipe. She first captured gold at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang and then again at the 2022 Games in Beijing. Her track record has made her one of the most recognizable faces in global snowboarding.
At these Games, she continued to perform at the highest level. Kim qualified for the finals on Wednesday, finishing first in the round ahead of Japan’s Sara Shimuzu and American teammate Maddie Mastro, according to the Olympics.
The women’s final is scheduled for Thursday, February 12, at 1:30 p.m. ET, where Kim will once again attempt to secure another gold medal.
Throughout the rising pressure of Olympic competition and the increasingly political atmosphere surrounding the U.S. team, Kim has stayed committed to the sport, the moment, and her message of unity.
