NEWARK, NJ — President Donald Trump launched a scathing online attack Friday against New Jersey rocker Bruce Springsteen, following politically charged remarks the musician made at the opening of his European tour.
In a Truth Social post on May 16, Trump responded to Springsteen’s criticism by calling him “highly overrated,” “a pushy, obnoxious JERK,” and “dumb as a rock.” Trump further accused the singer of being a fervent supporter of President Joe Biden, whom he again labeled “Crooked Joe” and “our WORST EVER President.” Trump concluded his post by suggesting Springsteen “KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT until he gets back into the Country.”
The president’s comments came hours after Springsteen used the opening of his concert overseas to deliver a strong political message. “In my home, the America I love…is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent, and treaseless house,” Springsteen said from the stage, without naming Trump directly but making clear references.
Springsteen calls for resistance to authoritarianism
Springsteen continued: “We ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American experience to rise with us…against authoritarianism and let freedom reign.” The statement was met with loud cheers from the crowd, many of whom view the singer not only as a rock icon but also as a symbol of progressive, working-class ideals.
The artist has consistently spoken out against Trump since the 2016 election, criticizing his policies and political style. He previously called Trump’s presidency “a nightmare” and has advocated for civil rights, immigration reform, and electoral change through both music and public statements.
Decade-long feud escalates
Trump and Springsteen have long clashed politically, with Trump often mocking celebrities who oppose him, while Springsteen has leveraged his platform to rally opposition to what he sees as threats to democratic values.
In 2020, Springsteen narrated and appeared in campaign ads supporting Biden, and his music was featured during Biden’s presidential campaign events. The tension between the two figures has only intensified in the years since.
Springsteen’s message aligns with his history of political activism, but his remarks abroad reignited criticism from conservative circles, with Trump supporters accusing the singer of disparaging the United States on foreign soil.