Reporter Not Fired Over Viral JD Vance Snow Update

Unexpected Protest Emerges from Sugarbush Ski Resort’s Snow Report

A remarkable protest against the Trump administration sparked from an unusual source: a routine snow report from the Sugarbush ski resort, nestled in the picturesque Green Mountains of Vermont. Vice President JD Vance chose this powdery retreat for a family skiing outing over the weekend, but what began as a simple update on slope conditions morphed into a powerful statement on national issues, thanks to Lucy Welch, the resort’s 25-year-old snow reporter.

Before Mr. Vance’s arrival, a post was published on the Sugarbush website at 6:49 a.m., outlining the current skiing conditions. Welch’s piece went beyond mere snowfall statistics. In a passionate message, she criticized the current administration for its perceived negligence regarding the environment and significant issues such as climate change, which she described as a dire threat to the skiing industry that many enjoy in the region.

“Right now, National Forest lands and National Parks are under direct attack by the current Administration,” she penned, passionately invoking the beauty of the Vermont landscape. In her message, she highlighted substantial cuts within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)—a critical resource for her snow reporting duties. Welch expressed her concern for marginalized communities, including veterans, immigrants, and members of the L.B.G.T.Q. spectrum, arguing that they are being targeted and disrespected by government policies.

Furthermore, she expressed personal risk, noting that sharing her opinions might cost her job at Sugarbush. Despite her fears, she asserted the importance of speaking out in times of uncertainty. “This whole shpiel probably won’t change a whole lot, and I can only assume that I will be fired,” Welch wrote, “but at least this will do even just a smidge more than just shutting up and being a sheep.” Her bold stance resonated with many, turning her into an unexpected symbol of resistance against the administration.

Following the publication of Welch’s post, the response was immediate and overwhelming. Colleagues and skiers alike quickly shared her statements online, branding her a courageous member of the Resistance—an informal title for those opposing President Trump. Creative tributes emerged, including T-shirts emblazoned with “I Love Lucy” slogans and social media illustrations depicting Welch resisting authority alongside a snow slope groomer, reminiscent of protests in Tiananmen Square.

Welch garnered support from various circles, including climate activist Bill McKibben, labelinging her a “hero for the moment.” He praised her willingness to take a stand for truth, urging others to follow her lead. “If a 25-year-old can risk her job to — quite politely — speak truth to power, the rest of us can figure out some things to do as well,” McKibben wrote, likening her to Ethan Allen, a leader in the Revolutionary War.

On the same weekend, Vance’s visit to Vermont—a state known for its liberal leanings—was met with significant outrage. Protesters emerged en masse, holding signs that labeled him a traitor and suggesting he “go ski in Russia.” Locals mocked Vance’s ski clothing despite his skills as a skier, with one sign humorously noting, “Vance skis in jeans,” highlighting a common ski faux pas.

Prior to Vance’s arrival, Sugarbush officials had alerted staff to prepare for a "high-profile guest," although they refrained from naming him directly. They clarified in a memo that choosing slopes did not equate to an endorsement of his political views, expressing a commitment to inclusivity in celebrating the outdoors.

Following the uproar from Welch’s messages, the resort took action and removed her post later that same day. However, John Bleh, a spokesperson for Sugarbush, announced that she remained employed with the resort. “We respect the voice and opinion of all our employees,” he stated, yet added that they believed her comments were inappropriate for a snow report platform.

In a subsequent post on social media, Vance characterized his trip to Vermont as a positive experience, claiming that he and his family “had a great time” and “barely noticed the protesters.” This statement was met with skepticism as details emerged about heightened security measures surrounding his visit.

While Welch could not be reached for an immediate comment, her biography on Sugarbush’s website reveals her background as a recent University of Vermont graduate who only discovered her passion for skiing a few years prior. Her responsibilities include waking up early to monitor snow conditions and sharing her love for skiing with the community.

Welch’s thoughts took a worrisome turn in her post, as she pondered the future and the possibility that future generations may be deprived of skier-friendly winters. “So please, for the sake of our future shredders,” she concluded, “Be Better Here.”

This incident at Sugarbush stands as a vivid example of how even the most unexpected platforms can be used to voice dissent and spur significant conversations about pressing national issues.