When is the State of the Union? US Women’s Hockey Team Declines Trump’s Invitation
News alerts: As anticipation builds for the upcoming State of the Union address, a notable story has emerged regarding the invitation extended to the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team. The team has announced they will be declining President Donald Trump’s invitation to attend the address, following a playful yet politically charged comment from the President himself.
The Invitation and the Remark
The situation unfolded after President Trump invited the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team to the State of the Union following their gold medal victory against Canada. In a lighthearted, yet pointed remark, Trump stated, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that.” He then jokingly added, “If he did not invite the women’s team, ‘I do believe I probably would be impeached.’”
USA Hockey’s Response
USA Hockey responded with a statement expressing gratitude for the invitation extended to the gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team. A spokesperson explained, “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, they clarified that due to pre-existing academic and professional commitments following the Olympic Games, the athletes are unable to participate.
The spokesperson further emphasized, “They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
White House Response and Olympic Victories
The White House has not yet issued a comment regarding the team’s decision. Both the U.S. Men’s and Women’s Hockey teams secured gold medals against Canada, with the women’s team winning on Thursday and the men’s team on Sunday. The invitation to the men’s team was extended during a congratulatory call on Sunday night.
It remains unclear whether the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team will attend the State of the Union. The event is a key moment in the political calendar, and the attendance of these celebrated athletes would have undoubtedly added a significant element of national pride.
For more information on the State of the Union address, you can visit the official White House Briefing Room.
Source: NBC News
