Jeff Merkley actually said...

"The Olympic Games exist to uplift the human spirit. Yet, unless something dramatically changes, in a few months' time the Games will be held in a country that continues to mercilessly crush the human ..."

"We believe athletes are humans, first and foremost, and should have the ability to express their voice in a peaceful manner that aligns with the Olympic Charter and principles."

"Holding the '22 Winter Olympics in China and allowing its authoritarian government to reap the rewards in prestige and propaganda of hosting this globally beloved event does not uphold the Olympic spi..."

"Opening Statement of Hon. Jeff Merkley, a U.S. Senator from Oregon; Chair, Congressional-Executive Commission on China."