In what may be the fastest political flip-flop in Olympic history, American skier Hunter Hess has executed a complete 180-degree turn on representing the United States, going from having "mixed emotions" about wearing the stars and stripes to suddenly claiming he "cannot wait to represent Team USA."
The lightning-quick reversal comes just weeks into President Trump's second term, as the new administration has made it crystal clear that America First policies extend to every corner of government – including which athletes get taxpayer-funded support for international competition.
Just days ago, Hess was singing a very different tune, expressing uncertainty about proudly representing the greatest nation on Earth. But apparently, a little dose of reality about who funds Team USA operations helped clarify his thinking remarkably fast.
The Trump Effect Takes Hold
This stunning reversal perfectly illustrates what happens when woke athletes realize their anti-American posturing has real-world consequences. Under the Trump-Vance administration's America First approach, there's no more coddling athletes who can't decide whether they're proud to be Americans.
"It's amazing how quickly these athletes find their patriotism when they realize their funding might be on the line," said one Olympic insider who requested anonymity. "Suddenly everyone remembers they love America."
The contrast couldn't be more stark with the Biden years, when athletes were practically encouraged to trash America on the world stage while collecting government checks. Those days are over.
Actions Have Consequences
Hess's rapid transformation from reluctant representative to Team USA enthusiast sends a clear message to other athletes who might be harboring similar "mixed emotions" about representing the country that gave them everything.
Under President Trump's leadership, American athletes are expected to compete with pride, not apologize for their citizenship. It's a simple concept that apparently needed reinforcing after four years of Biden-era weakness.
The question now is whether Hess's newfound patriotism is genuine, or just another calculated move by an athlete who finally realized which way the political winds are blowing. Either way, at least he's saying the right things now – even if it took the threat of consequences to get there.