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//Ski Slopes Become Unlikely Protest Grounds as Vermonters Push Back Against Trump-Vance Policies//

People hold signs in protest against Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the Mad River Valley at the base of the Sugarbush Ski Resort in Warren, where Vance was rumored to be skiing on March 1. 

A peaceful winter day at Sugarbush Resort in Vermont took on a political tone as a small but vocal group of protesters gathered on the slopes to voice their concerns about the Trump-Vance administration. While skiers and snowboarders enjoyed the fresh powder, demonstrators held signs criticizing policies ranging from climate change inaction to economic inequality, as well as the administration’s stance on international relations, particularly with Ukraine.

A Protest on the Slopes

Among the protesters, one individual held a snowboard while displaying a sign opposing rising ski pass costs, drawing attention to the growing accessibility gap in outdoor recreation. Others held signs with messages addressing broader national issues, including diversity, climate change, and opposition to Senator J.D. Vance, Trump’s vice president. The group stood near the resort's main entrance, engaging with passersby as they made their way to the chairlifts.

Hundreds of people lined the street with signs in protest of Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the Mad River Valley in Waitsfield on March 1. Cars driving past honked in support or showcased signage of their own.

Despite the visible demonstration, the ski resort continued its normal operations. The central lifts remained functional, and lodges were filled with visitors enjoying the winter season. The atmosphere was a mix of curiosity and indifference, with some skiers stopping to read the signs while others simply went about their day on the slopes.

Political Tensions in Vermont

Vermont has long been known for its progressive stance on social and environmental issues, making it no surprise that the Trump-Vance administration faces opposition in the Green Mountain State. Protest organizer Emily Vidali emphasized the need for action, stating, “Every day, the Trump-Vance administration is putting Vermonters at risk and hurting Vermonters. He’s also hurting everyone in this country, and he’s hurting our allies like Ukraine. He’s hurting people around the world.”

“As a trans person and as a person of color, I’m extremely concerned about the new policies about trans people. I’m concerned about the ICE raids,” Lam said. “I have friends who are trans. I have friends who are immigrants who’ve been reaching out to me and saying we’re scared.”

Vidali’s statement underscored the broader concerns that Vermonters have with the current administration’s policies. From rolling back climate regulations to cutting federal aid programs, many residents feel that the government is not acting in their best interests. The protest was a reflection of these frustrations, albeit in an unconventional setting.

The Intersection of Politics and Outdoor Recreation

While political protests are typically associated with urban centers, this event highlighted the growing intersection of politics and outdoor recreation. With climate change threatening winter sports, many skiers and snowboarders have become increasingly vocal about environmental policies. Rising temperatures have shortened ski seasons and affected snowfall patterns, causing concern among those who depend on winter tourism for their livelihoods. 

Additionally, economic policies affecting the affordability of outdoor activities have become a hot-button issue. As ski pass prices continue to climb, many believe that the sport is becoming increasingly inaccessible to middle- and lower-income families. The presence of a protester with a sign addressing this issue demonstrated that these frustrations are not limited to federal policies but also extend to local economic concerns.

Sugarbush Resort’s Response

Sugarbush Resort did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the protest. However, the resort has historically positioned itself as an environmentally conscious and community-focused destination. The question remains whether the resort will address concerns raised by protesters, particularly regarding affordability and climate action.

Vance’s Visit and Political Implications

Senator J.D. Vance’s presence at the resort added an extra layer of tension to the event. While Vance did not directly engage with the protesters, his visit was seen as a reflection of the administration’s continued outreach efforts to different communities. However, in a state that overwhelmingly leans against Trump’s policies, his presence was met with skepticism.

This protest, while small in scale, is indicative of the larger political discourse happening across the country. Even in traditionally apolitical spaces like ski resorts, individuals are finding ways to make their voices heard. As the 2024 election cycle continues, moments like these may become more common, serving as a reminder that political issues permeate all aspects of life—even a day on the slopes.

As winter continues and political tensions rise, it remains to be seen whether similar demonstrations will take place at other ski resorts. Climate activists, economic justice advocates, and those concerned with international affairs are likely to continue making their voices heard in unexpected places. Whether the Trump-Vance administration will acknowledge and address these concerns is yet to be seen, but one thing is clear—Vermonters are not staying silent.

For now, the slopes remain open, the chairlifts continue to run, and the debate over the future of the nation plays out not just in the halls of Washington but in the snowy peaks of Vermont as well.