By Chris Walker
This article was originally published by Truthout
On Monday, Olympic skier Hunter Hess sparked conversation about feelings of national pride while representing the U.S. “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.,” he said during a press conference in Milan. His comments caught the attention of former President Donald Trump, who labeled Hess a “real loser” for his mixed feelings.
Hess, 27, expressed that representing the U.S. comes with mixed emotions, especially given the current political climate. “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of,” he explained. His honesty resonated with many Americans who feel similarly.
Instead of directly addressing Trump, Hess shared a heartfelt message on social media. He affirmed his love for his country but emphasized the need for improvement. “One of the amazing things about this country is that we have the right to point that out,” he stated. He highlighted the unifying power of the Olympics, especially in divided times.
It’s worth noting that Hess’s sentiment echoes a broader trend in America. A Gallup survey from last summer showed a drop in national pride, with only 58% of Americans feeling “very” or “extremely” proud to be American. This marks the lowest level of pride recorded in 25 years. Interestingly, there seems to be a link between political atmosphere and national pride. During Trump’s first term from 2016 to 2020, pride levels dipped by 18 points, highlighting how political leadership can impact public sentiment.
In contrast to Hunter Hess’s openness, Trump has a history of condemning anyone who questions him. This includes not just athletes, but also journalists and comedians who criticize his policies. For instance, he has previously lashed out at NFL players who protested against social issues, showing a pattern of intolerance toward dissent.
Hunter Hess stands as a reminder that athletes can be more than just competitors; they can be voices for change. As the upcoming Olympics approach, many are eager to see how he competes and whether his message will inspire others to engage in similar discussions.
For further insights, you can explore the full Gallup survey results [here](https://news.gallup.com/poll/692150/american-pride-slips-new-low.aspx).
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