Olympic Champion Jack Hughes Addresses Political Firestorm Over White House Invitation
Jack Hughes, the American hockey star who scored the game-winning goal against Canada in the Winter Olympics final, has stepped forward to address the growing controversy surrounding the U.S. men's team's acceptance of President Donald Trump's White House invitation. The situation escalated when the champion U.S. women's squad, which also defeated Canada for gold in a dramatic overtime victory in Milan, declined the same offer.
"Everything Is So Political"
Speaking to the Daily Mail at a victory celebration in Miami, Hughes expressed frustration with the polarized climate. "Everything is so political," he remarked, highlighting how the teams' achievements have become entangled in broader societal debates. The women's team turned down Trump's invitation to join the men at the State of the Union address and White House visit, citing scheduling conflicts in a diplomatically worded statement from USA Hockey.
Hughes defended their decision, noting, "They've got busy schedules, too." He added, "Everyone is giving us backlash for all the social media stuff today. People are so negative out there and they are just trying to find a reason to put people down and make something out of almost nothing."
Trump's Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
The controversy intensified when President Trump, during a congratulatory phone call to the men's team, made light of inviting the women's team. "And we have to — I must tell you — we're going to have to bring the women's team," he said, eliciting laughter from players. "[If I don't] do that, I do believe I probably would be impeached, OK?"
USA Hockey declined on behalf of the women's team, stating, "We deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement." However, Trump's dismissive tone and the players' reaction generated significant criticism online, with some even calling for the men's team to reject the White House offer in solidarity.
Hughes Emphasizes Team Unity and Patriotism
Hughes, who plays for the New Jersey Devils in the NHL, insisted that relations between the men's and women's teams remain strong. "I think we are so tight with their group," he told the tabloid. "After we won the gold medal we were in the cafeteria at 3:30 a.m. in the morning with them and we go from there, pack our bags and we're on the bus."
He continued, "People are so negative about things. I think everyone in that locker room knows how much we support them, how proud we are of them and we know the same way we feel about them, they feel about us."
Regarding the White House visit, Hughes was unapologetic. "We're athletes. We're so proud to represent the U.S. and when you get the chance to go to the White House and meet the president, we're proud to be Americans and that's so patriotic." His comments underscore the complex intersection of sports, politics, and national pride in today's highly charged environment.
