Vance: Olympics Unify Americans Like Few Other Events
U.S. Vice-President JD Vance recently arrived in Milan for the Milan Cortina Winter Games, underscoring the significance of unity in American sports. He addressed U.S. athletes, expressing that the Olympics are “one of the few things that unites the entire country.” Vance’s family accompanied him to the games, where they attended a preliminary round match featuring the U.S. women’s hockey team against the Czech Republic.
Diplomatic Mission and Family Engagement
This trip marks Vance’s first stop on a diplomatic journey that encompasses both sports and politics. As part of the delegation from President Donald Trump, he will later travel to Armenia and Azerbaijan to support a newly established peace agreement.
During the match at the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena, Vance joined the crowd in cheering for the U.S. team, notably applauding when Alex Carpenter scored the opening goal. He labeled this trip as one of the highlights of his vice-presidency, highlighting bipartisan support among Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Key Delegation Members
On February 6, 2026, during the opening ceremony of the Games, Vance will lead a prominent U.S. delegation. Key members include:
- Usha Vance (Second Lady)
- Marco Rubio (Secretary of State)
- Tilman Fertitta (U.S. Ambassador to Italy)
- Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson and Monique Lamoureux-Morando (Olympic gold medalists)
- Apolo Ohno (speedskater)
- Evan Lysacek (figure skater)
Vance noted his wife’s enthusiasm for the Olympics, despite not being a sports fan, showcasing the unifying power of the competition for Americans.
Future Plans: Armenia and Azerbaijan
Following the Winter Games, Vance will visit Armenia and Azerbaijan to reinforce a U.S.-brokered peace deal that aims to resolve longstanding conflicts in the region. This agreement includes:
- Reopening key transportation routes
- Enhancing cooperation in energy and technology
- Establishing the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity,” a transit corridor connecting Azerbaijan and its exclave, Nakhchivan
The completion of this route is expected to strengthen U.S. influence in the region amid diminishing Russian power.
Insights on Vice Presidential Trips
Historically, vice-presidents undertake international travel that reflects both diplomatic and national interests. JD Vance follows in the footsteps of his predecessors, who also engaged in significant international diplomacy, such as Joe Biden’s 2010 Winter Olympics attendance and Mike Pence’s trips to East Asia. These missions often serve important U.S. interests abroad, showcasing the versatility and responsibilities of the vice-presidency.
Vance’s focus on unity at the Olympics and his diplomatic efforts illustrate the multifaceted role of the vice-president, combining celebration with strategic international engagement. As he embarks on this journey, he emphasizes that the Olympics are a moment of togetherness for all Americans.
