US Olympians Champion LGBTQ Rights, Face Online Hate from Trump Supporters

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 9, 2026 2:34 PM ET

During the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italian athletes voiced their support for LGBTQ rights amidst a backdrop of political tension in the United States. These games, which began on February 6, also became a platform for athletes to address social and political issues, leading to significant backlash against some of their comments.

US Olympians Champion LGBTQ Rights

Amber Glenn, a figure skater from Plano, Texas, became a focal point of controversy after speaking out on LGBTQ rights. Glenn reported receiving a wave of online hate and threats following her remarks. She described the experience as one of the most alarming moments of her life, as she faced a “scary amount” of hostility on social media.

Athlete: Amber Glenn
Age: 26
Location: Plano, Texas
Event: Figure skating women’s team

Political Commentary from Athletes

Other Olympians, like 31-year-old Alex Ferreira, also used the occasion to express their concerns about issues back home, including the treatment of immigrants. Ferreira emphasized the importance of compassion and peace as Olympic ideals. “The Olympics represent peace, so let’s not only bring world peace but domestic peace within our country,” he said.

This sentiment was echoed by 23-year-old Svea Irving from Winter Park, Colorado. She noted the current challenges facing the country while advocating for love and respect towards others.

Backlash from Conservative Leaders

Hunter Hess, a 27-year-old skier from Bend, Oregon, sparked significant attention with his comments about representing the U.S. during a turbulent time. Hess stated, “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.” His statement drew sharp criticism from former President Trump, who labeled him a “loser” on his platform, Truth Social.

Athlete: Hunter Hess
Age: 27
Location: Bend, Oregon

Representative Byron Donalds also criticized Hess publicly, stressing that wearing the U.S. flag entails a commitment to represent the country fully. In contrast, snowboarder Chloe Kim stood in solidarity with Hess, drawing from her family’s immigrant background to advocate for unity and compassion.

Challenges Faced by Athletes

The ongoing political dimension surrounding the Olympics led to protests in Milan, with some demonstrators clashing with police. Notably, Vice President JD Vance faced boos when he attended the opening ceremony, highlighting the tensions that have been present at the games.

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) acknowledged the rising threats against athletes who speak out. A representative stated they report credible threats to law enforcement, reflecting the sad reality of increasing hostility faced by Olympians.

Despite the turmoil, some athletes chose to focus solely on their competitive goals. Nick Goepper, a skier, emphasized enduring values of respect, opportunity, and equality, suggesting that the U.S. has faced challenges for centuries.

Conclusion

The 2026 Winter Olympics have not only showcased athletic talent but also highlighted crucial social issues, particularly regarding LGBTQ rights. As American athletes navigate their responsibilities and identities amidst a polarized political landscape, their voices remain vital in championing human rights and advocating for change.