What Happened
The U.S. women’s hockey team has declined President Donald Trump’s invitation to attend the upcoming State of the Union address, scheduled for February 24, 2026. This decision comes a day after Trump humorously suggested that he would face impeachment if he did not invite the women’s team, following their gold medal victory against Canada in the Olympic final.
A spokesperson for USA Hockey expressed gratitude for the invitation, stating, “We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement.” However, the spokesperson noted that due to prior academic and professional commitments, the athletes would be unable to attend.
Why It Matters
The refusal of the women’s hockey team to attend the State of the Union highlights ongoing discussions about gender equality in sports and recognition of women’s achievements. The invitation from Trump, albeit made in jest, underscores the visibility and importance of women’s sports in the national conversation. The team’s decision not to attend may also reflect broader sentiments regarding the administration’s policies and public perception of Trump’s presidency, as indicated by recent polling data showing a significant portion of Americans disapproving of his performance.
What’s Next
As the State of the Union address approaches, public interest remains high regarding the topics Trump will address, particularly in light of recent Pew Research Center surveys indicating a negative outlook on the economy among many Americans. The address will be broadcast live, allowing citizens to engage with the administration’s policies and proposals directly. The absence of the women’s hockey team may serve as a focal point for discussions about representation and recognition in sports moving forward.
