The U.S. Women's Hockey Team has decided not to attend President Donald Trump's invitation to the State of the Union (SOTU) address. The gold medal-winning men's team, however, will be present at the event occurring on Tuesday night. Both the men's and women's teams achieved gold at the Winter Olympics in Milan, and this distinction led to invitations from President Trump.
A spokesperson for USA Hockey stated that the women's team expressed gratitude for the invitation, recognizing their achievements. The spokesperson, as quoted by NBC News, said, "They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment," but noted that the team could not attend due to "the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments."
The invitation came after the men's team's victory over Canada in a closely contested 2-1 overtime game on Sunday. The women's team had won their gold medal before the men's final. In a phone call to the men's locker room in Milan, President Trump personally extended the invitation, suggesting the possibility of sending a military plane to facilitate the team's travel. "If you would like to, it’s the coolest night," he remarked.
Additionally, President Trump mentioned a subsequent White House visit, promising a celebratory occasion with medals. In his call, he humorously touched upon the necessity of inviting the women's team as well, stating, "We are going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that. I do believe I would probably be impeached," eliciting laughter from the players.
Online reactions to the women's team's decision varied. Lexi LaFleur Brown, a hockey writer and the wife of former NHL player JT Brown, expressed her views via Twitter, highlighting the growth of women's hockey and the resolve of female athletes in the face of disrespect.
During the men's gold medal celebration, FBI Director Kash Patel was present in the Milan locker room, with footage showing him joining the festivities. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck's performance was pivotal in the final game, and Jack Hughes's winning goal prompted Vice President JD Vance to commend the player's patriotism and dedication, despite his injury during the match.
President Trump had considered attending the gold medal game in Italy but decided against the trip. The acceptance of the men's team and the polite decline from the women's team have become a talking point, fostering discussions about their respective decisions.
