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Reason US women's ice hockey team won't accept Donald Trump's invitation to White House
Team USA’s women’s ice hockey stars may have struck gold on the ice in Italy - but when it came to celebrating in Washington, they chose a different path.
After an unforgettable Winter Olympics that saw both the men’s and women’s teams defeat arch-rivals Canada, an invitation from President Donald Trump sparked a wave of controversy.
Team USA’s Golden Fortnight In Milan And Cortina
It was a dream run in Milan and Cortina for the United States’ ice hockey squads.
Both the men’s and women’s teams faced off against their fierce neighbors, Canada, in dramatic showdowns.
The women secured their gold medals first, setting the tone for what would become a historic stretch for Team USA.
Not long after, the men mirrored that success. With double gold in the bag, celebrations were in full swing.
Trump’s Call — And The Military Plane Offer
Following the men’s victory, President Donald Trump personally phoned the team to congratulate them. During the call, he floated an offer to fly them home in style, per The Mirror.
"I can send a military plane or something," he said.
"If you would like to, it's the coolest night. We will do the White House the next day, we will just have some fun, we have medals for you guys."
The idea was to have the team attend Tuesday night’s State of the Union event and celebrate their triumph in Washington.
But the tone of the call soon shifted.
“I Do Believe I Probably Would Be Impeached”
While speaking to the men’s team, Trump acknowledged that he would also need to invite the women’s squad.
"I must tell you, we're gonna have to bring the women's team," he said.
"I do believe I probably would be impeached."
The comment was met with laughter from many of the men on the call.
However, when footage of the exchange began circulating online, the reaction from the public was far less amused.
The video quickly drew criticism, with many fans expressing disappointment.
One person wrote: "So disappointing to see the US men’s hockey team’s true colors after seeing so many brave athletes stand up to this administration using their platform.
"Women’s hockey deserves better and the world deserves better.”
The backlash placed even more focus on how the women’s team would respond to the president’s invitation.
Women’s Team Declines State Of The Union Appearance
Amid the growing controversy, a USA ice hockey spokesperson addressed the situation directly.
"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.
"They were honoured to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.
"Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate."
The statement made it clear that scheduling conflicts prevented the team from attending, emphasizing their appreciation for the recognition while confirming they would not be present at the State of the Union.