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STUNNING FLIP: U.S. Skier Goes From 'Mixed Emotions' to 'Cannot Wait' to Represent America - What Changed?

Gary FranchiFebruary 9, 2026110 views
STUNNING FLIP: U.S. Skier Goes From 'Mixed Emotions' to 'Cannot Wait' to Represent America - What Changed?
Photo by Generated on Unsplash

In what might be the most lightning-fast patriotic awakening in recent memory, American skier Hunter Hess has gone from expressing "mixed emotions" about representing the United States to suddenly declaring he "cannot wait to represent Team USA" - all in the span of just weeks.

The dramatic reversal comes at a time when President Trump's America First agenda has reignited national pride across the country, making anti-American sentiment increasingly toxic for public figures and athletes alike.

From Shame to Pride Overnight

Hess initially expressed hesitation about donning the red, white, and blue, joining the ranks of woke athletes who've made careers out of criticizing the very country that gave them opportunities to compete on the world stage. But something clearly shifted - and fast.

Now the skier claims he's eager to represent Team USA, though he hasn't explained what sparked this sudden surge of patriotism. Could it be the changing political climate under Trump's leadership? The return of American confidence on the world stage? Or simply the realization that trashing America isn't the career booster it once was?

"The speed of this reversal is absolutely stunning," noted one sports commentator. "You don't usually see athletes flip this dramatically on something as fundamental as national pride."

This isn't just about one athlete - it's a microcosm of what's happening across America. Under Trump's second term, the toxic anti-American sentiment that poisoned our culture for years is finally being rejected. Athletes, celebrities, and public figures are discovering that patriotism is back in style.

America First Works

While Hess hasn't detailed his reasoning, the timing speaks volumes. Trump's victory has unleashed a wave of national renewal that's making it increasingly uncomfortable for public figures to maintain their America-bashing positions.

The question patriots should be asking: Is this genuine patriotism, or just another case of someone reading the political winds? Either way, it's clear that Trump's America First movement is changing hearts and minds - even among those who initially resisted embracing their own country.

What do you think caused this skier's sudden change of heart about representing America?

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Gary Franchi

Award-winning journalist covering breaking news, politics & culture for Next News Network.

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PatriotSkier22Verifiedjust now
This is exactly what we need to see more of - athletes who are PROUD to wear the red, white, and blue! Whatever changed their mind, I'm glad they realized what an honor it is to represent the greatest country on earth.
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MountainMomVerifiedjust now
Couldn't agree more! My son competes in junior skiing and he dreams of representing America one day.
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FreedomFirstVerifiedjust now
Finally an athlete who gets it. So tired of seeing people ashamed of our flag.
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AlpineVetVerifiedjust now
I wonder what specifically shifted for them? The article doesn't really dive into the details of what caused this change of heart, but I'm curious if it was pressure from fans or maybe they just had some time to reflect on what it really means.