Olympic Glory Applause Turns Political as NJ Governor Faces Boos at Devils Arena
At the Prudential Center in Newark on Wednesday, a night to honor American hockey heroes turned political. New Jersey Devils player Jack Hughes received screaming ovation for his Olympic heroics, while Governor Mikie Sherrill was booed during a ceremonial puck drop.
Hughes, who scored the game-winning overtime goal against Canada to win the Winter Olympics gold for the US men’s hockey team, was honored at the ceremony. Fans filled the arena days after his stunning triumph to celebrate. The building cheered Hughes’s introduction, showing pride in the player and the national team.
Governor Sherrill and her husband, Jason Hedberg, were announced for the ceremonial puck drop, which changed the mood. A part of the audience booed, contrasting with the earlier celebration.
Less than three months have passed since Governor Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a landslide in November. The arena’s reaction appears to be related to political sensitivities surrounding the U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team’s meeting with former President Donald Trump.
Trump and FBI Director Kash Patel joined players in the locker room and post-game call after the men’s team won gold over Canada in overtime. Trump said, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team” during the call. You know. I think I’d be impeached.”
U.S. women’s hockey forward Hilary Knight called the slur “distasteful and unfortunate.” The exchange sparked internet and political controversy.
Conservative commentators said the booing at Governor Sherrill showed voter dissatisfaction. Some right-wing social media accounts posted videos praising the crowd’s reaction. Others said the response showed unhappiness with political criticism of the men’s Olympic squad.
Hughes did not stir up the controversy. After Wednesday’s 2-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres, he stressed teamwork between the men and women. “It is what it is now,” Hughes remarked. “We admire the women’s team. They respect us greatly. Americans are glad we won the Olympics.”
The Devils planned the event to highlight Hughes’ historic accomplishment and Team USA’s worldwide success. The men’s and women’s teams won gold medals by beating Canada in overtime, a rare and cherished success for American hockey.
Governor Sherrill left her post-event statements silent on the boos. Instead, she wrote a statement applauding the athletes and Hughes for scoring the “Golden Goal,” saying it made New Jersey proud.
Political outbursts at athletic events are nothing new, but Wednesday showed how rapidly national discussions can reach local arenas. Hockey and national pride dominated the night for many supporters. Others saw it as political differences.
Despite the uproar, Hughes’ milestone was the evening’s primary storyline. His overtime goal against Canada was a highlight for Team USA and a joyous moment for New Jersey hockey fans.
Sources
Office of the Governor of New Jersey
USA Hockey
Official post-game remarks from Jack Hughes
Public statements from U.S. women’s hockey forward Hilary Knight
