Adam Edelman, a Jewish-American bobsledder representing Team Israel in the Winter Olympics, has publicly endorsed President Donald Trump’s efforts to combat the rising tide of antisemitism in American education and culture. Edelman, who was born in Massachusetts and graduated from MIT, has made significant personal sacrifices to maintain his commitment to representing Israel on the world stage. Despite the challenges of competing for a small country with limited resources, Edelman remains determined to lead his team back to the Winter Olympic Games for the first time since 2018.
Edelman’s team has faced unique challenges over the years, including the tragic events of October 7th, when Hamas attacked Israel. This event forced the team to shift its focus towards the war effort, temporarily changing the dynamics of their preparation for the Olympics.
During his time with Team Israel, Edelman has lived below the poverty line, choosing to invest his limited resources into the sport rather than personal wealth. He even sold all of his bitcoin, which he estimates would be worth millions today. The sacrifices have been immense, but Edelman believes the greater purpose of representing Israel and contributing to the global Jewish community justifies the personal cost.
While Edelman could have competed for the United States, he believes that would have undermined the greater purpose of his Olympic journey. He states, “My value to the world, and why God put me on this Earth, is to use the skills that he gave me to impact others positively… so I’m solely motivated to represent Israel.”
The Trump administration’s efforts to address antisemitism have resonated with Edelman, who has witnessed firsthand the impact of these protests on Jewish students. He has praised the administration’s actions, stating that they are “exactly the right way” to ensure that American institutions do not become centers of indoctrination and exclusion. These actions align with his own values and underscore his belief in the importance of supporting Israel and combating prejudice.
As the team prepares for potential qualification for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina Milan, Edelman remains focused on his mission of representing Israel and making a meaningful impact on the world stage. His story is one of personal sacrifice and unwavering dedication to a cause that he believes is greater than himself.