The US women's national ice hockey team has reportedly declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to be honored at the White House in connection with the State of the Union address in March, according to NBC. The team recently won a gold medal, defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime in the final in Milan. A spokesperson for USA Hockey stated that the players are sincerely grateful for the invitation and appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement, but due to the timing and prior academic and professional commitments after the games, they are unable to attend.
It is unclear whether Trump's comments, which included a remark about inviting the women's team to avoid impeachment, influenced the decision. Trump had previously congratulated the US men's team after they secured an Olympic gold medal and invited them to celebrate at the White House.
the players are sincerely grateful for the invitation and appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement, but due to the timing and prior academic and professional commitments after the games, they are unable to attend