Dear Editor,
During the month of February, for two weeks, most Americans were made aware of the unifying, patriotic spectacle of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Then, almost shockingly, just two days following the closing ceremonies, America’s political polarization was conspicuously displayed during President Trump’s nearly two-hour televised State of the Union (SOTU) address to the nation.
As the Olympic Games are designed to inspire national pride and unity, various athletes, commentators, and politicians expressed mixed perspectives on how to demonstrate healthy patriotism and speak freely while remaining mindful of an already divisive political climate.
After all, recent US actions on the international stage have served as fuel for outrage. Examples include softening support of Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia, threats to take over Greenland by force, and verbal comments that conveyed a general disregard for countries forming the NATO alliance.
The social and political significance of the Olympics has become increasingly evident, given the Games' global scope and their reliance on nationalism as a mode of organizing. Even so, the Olympic Charter states that a fundamental principle is that sport is neutral and must remain separate from political, religious, or other forms of interference.
In his 2026 SOTU, President Trump used the address to highlight his “America First” agenda, including immigration enforcement and tariffs, resulting in a divided chamber. As the speech progressed, it moved from initial optimistic themes and remarks about “winning” to direct confrontation with Democrats. The president labeled them “crazy” and blamed them for economic issues.
Traditional decorum gave way to choreographed tension. Raucous Republican applause contrasted with the “other side” seated in silence.
Some Democrats chose to skip the speech altogether, further underscoring the deep partisan divide.
The SOTU had become an intense polarization rather than a unifying address.
Donald Trump’s political actions have deepened the two-party division.
His combative style and “us versus them” rhetoric have galvanized his MAGA base while alienating opponents. Trump appears committed to doubling down on demonizing Democrats rather than seeking opportunities for policy agreement.
With the midterm elections just eight months away, perhaps Mr. Trump would be well served to recall that the framers of the Constitution envisioned the government’s three branches engaging in healthy disagreement while collaborating toward shared security and stability.
In addition, the notion that sports and politics should remain separate is largely a myth. Sports have long been intertwined with political events, international diplomacy, and social issues. Sport functions as a powerful, and sometimes controversial, platform for expressing national identity, challenging injustice, and influencing public opinion.
To that end, I, too, say, “USA, USA, USA.”
Historically rooted in 19th century sports culture, the concept of gentlemanly conduct emphasizes respect for the opponent, exemplified by traditions like the “handshake line” our own gold medal ice hockey teams extended to their defeated Canadian rivals - a positive gesture intended to ensure that “winning” does not create unnecessary animosity.
Mr. Trump: “America First” is not predicated on America only.
Gracious winners treat opponents with respect, in part because the challenge was worthy and also because they may need them as partners in the future.
Peter Wibell, Rutledge