U.S. Athletes Criticize America During the Games plus  CA’s ‘Jock Tax’ Turns Win Into a $71K Loss episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 15, 2026 · 30 MIN

U.S. Athletes Criticize America During the Games plus CA’s ‘Jock Tax’ Turns Win Into a $71K Loss

from The Ben Ferguson Podcast · host iHeartPodcasts

1. Criticism of U.S. Olympic Athletes’ Political Statements Several U.S. Olympians expressed discomfort representing America due to political issues. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess said representing the U.S. brings “mixed emotions.” A viral photo and comments also show anti‑ICE sentiments. Media outlets (Washington Post, Reuters, Guardian) are portrayed as supportive of athletes’ criticism of America. This behavior is encouraged by left‑leaning media and harms national unity. 2. American-born Skier Competing for China Skier Eileen Gu, born and trained in the U.S., competes for China and publicly defended Hunter Hess. Her designer suit referenced Chinese cultural elements. The narrative frames her as benefiting from America while choosing to represent China instead. 3. Super Bowl & California “Jock Tax” NFL quarterback Sam Darnold, lost money after winning the Super Bowl due to California’s “jock tax.” California taxes non‑resident athletes based on “duty days” spent in the state, which for the Super Bowl week totaled around eight days. As a result, Darnold owed $249,000 in taxes, exceeding his $178,000 Super Bowl bonus, meaning he netted a loss of about $71,000. This is evidence of California’s economic mismanagement and high‑tax policies. Sports analysts argue players and the NFLPA should push to avoid holding future Super Bowls in California. 4. Trump, Epstein, and Ghislaine Maxwell Newly referenced 2019 FBI interview with a Palm Beach police chief claims: Trump told police in 2006 that Epstein’s behavior was “well‑known.” Trump said Maxwell was “evil” and encouraged police to focus on her. Trump claimed he once saw Epstein with teenagers and left. Trump claimed to have banned Epstein from Mar‑a‑Lago. Document contrasts this with media narratives suggesting Trump was hiding something. 6. Maxwell’s Congressional Testimony Maxwell appeared virtually before the House Oversight Committee. She invoked the Fifth Amendment to every single question: Her relationship with Epstein Her role in recruiting or trafficking minors Her involvement in directing girls to provide sexual favors The identities of co‑conspirators She is already serving a 20‑year sentence, but her lawyers say she remains silent to protect ongoing appeals. Lawmakers received no additional information, leaving the public frustrated. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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U.S. Athletes Criticize America During the Games plus CA’s ‘Jock Tax’ Turns Win Into a $71K Loss

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This episode was published on February 15, 2026.

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1. Criticism of U.S. Olympic Athletes’ Political Statements Several U.S. Olympians expressed discomfort representing America due to political issues. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess said representing the U.S. brings “mixed emotions.” A viral photo and...

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