Vance Criticizes Eileen Gu for Competing for China

Vice President says someone who benefited from U.S. should want to compete for the U.S.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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In an interview on Fox News, Vice President JD Vance criticized San Francisco-born skier Eileen Gu for competing for China in the Winter Olympics, saying that someone who benefited from the U.S. education system and freedoms should want to compete for the United States.

Why it matters

Gu's decision to compete for China has been controversial, with some accusing her of being a "traitor" and overlooking issues like the treatment of the Uyghurs. Vance's comments reflect a broader debate around national identity and loyalty, especially for high-profile athletes.

The details

During the interview, host Martha MacCallum asked Vance about Gu's status and whether it should be changed. Vance said he had no opinion on her status, but believed that someone who grew up and benefited from the U.S. should want to compete for the United States. He said he would be rooting for American athletes who identify as Americans.

  • The interview took place on February 17, 2026.

The players

JD Vance

The Vice President of the United States.

Eileen Gu

A San Francisco-born skier who is competing for China in the Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“I certainly think that somebody who grew up in the United States of America, who benefited from our education system, from the freedoms and liberties that make this country a great place. I would hope that they want to compete with the United States of America.”

— JD Vance, Vice President (The Story* on Fox News Channel)

The takeaway

Vance's comments highlight the ongoing debate around national identity and loyalty, especially for high-profile athletes like Eileen Gu who have benefited from opportunities in the U.S. but choose to compete for other countries.