Chloe Kim Urges Leading ‘With Love and Compassion’ In Press Conference

By now, you’ve probably heard that freeskier Hunter Hess was unfairly lashed out at after speaking honestly about civil unrest that’s happened back in the United States. President Donald Trump said it was “very hard to root for someone like this” and called him a loser. Since then, Hess has received death threats and an outpouring of hate.

"I think it brings up mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now, I think. It's a little hard," he said in the press conference. "There's obviously a lot going on that I'm not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren't. I think for me it's more I'm representing my, like, friends and family back home, the people that represented it before me, all the things that I believe are good about the U.S."

Of course, other athletes have been asked similar questions. The U.S. Women’s Halfpipe Team was asked to address it in a recent press conference. Here is what each member said:

Chloe Kim

“Obviously with my parents being immigrants, this one definitely hits close to home, “In moments like these, I think it is really important for us to unite and stand up for one another for all that’s going on,” Kim said. “I’m really proud to represent the United States. The U.S. has given my family and I so much opportunity, but I also think that we are allowed to voice our opinions with what’s going on. I think that we need to lead with love and compassion and I would love to see some more of that.”

Bea Kim

“I think there are a lot of different opinions in the U.S. right now. Obviously we're very divided. I personally am very proud to represent the United States. That being said, I think diversity is what makes us a very strong country and what makes us so special. I don't think there's anywhere else in the world where you can really have the opportunity to do whatever you want. I mean, I think the four of us sitting here today are an example of that. We all came from very different backgrounds. And, you know, Chloe's parents immigrated here, my grandparents immigrated to the states, and we all got to just chase our dreams and be here, and I think that's what's also so special about the Olympics, is they're bringing a bunch of different people together from different countries, and we just get to be united through sport and celebrate sport, celebrate the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect."

Maddie Mastro

“I’m proud to represent team USA and my country and I’m also saddened with what's happening at home. It's really tough. I feel like we can't turn a blind eye to that. But at the same time, I represent a country that has the same values as mine, of kindness and compassion. And we come together in times of injustice."

Maddy Schaffrick

“I feel like the Olympics is the epitome of all countries and cultures coming together in celebration and friendly competition and I’m proud to represent the U.S. and wear the American flag in such an internationally cohesive event.”

Women's halfpipe qualifiers go down Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 4:30 a.m. Eastern Time.