Bruce Springsteen isn’t holding back. In a no-punches-pulled interview with The New York Times, the rock legend lit into Donald Trump, branding the former U.S. president a “moron” and calling the current state of America an “American tragedy.”
Springsteen, 75, known for his blue-collar anthems and political activism, pointed to years of deindustrialization and growing inequality as the root causes behind Trump’s rise. “It was ripe for a demagogue,” he said. “And while I can’t believe it was this moron that came along, he fit the bill for some people.”
He described the political and cultural shift under Trump as something he once believed was impossible in America. “This can’t happen here. This will never happen in America. And here we are,” he said.
The Boss also ripped into Trump’s harsh immigration policies. Recalling his time in California, Springsteen said he was deeply moved by migrant communities. “I was interested in the history of it, because I felt that this is the future of the United States -which it has become,” he added.
Springsteen didn’t mince words: “What’s going on at the moment to me is disgusting, and a terrible tragedy.” He stressed that the U.S. has a fundamentally democratic tradition, and expressed hope for a turnaround. “Let’s knock on wood,” he said.
The feud between the two has intensified lately. During a recent concert in Manchester, Springsteen launched into a trio of jabs aimed at what he called the “corruption” and “incompetence” of the Trump administration.
Opening the show with Land of Hope and Dreams, he addressed the crowd: “Welcome to the Land of Hope and Dreams Tour! The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ‘n’ roll in dangerous times.”
Trump, 78, didn’t take it lightly. He fired back on Truth Social, calling Springsteen a “pushy, obnoxious JERK.”
But Springsteen didn’t stand alone. Fellow musician Neil Young stepped in to support him, saying he’s “not scared” of Trump and backing Springsteen’s criticism.
This isn’t the first time Bruce Springsteen has spoken out politically, but the heat behind his latest comments shows the stakes are higher than ever. With the 2024 election aftermath still fresh and tensions high, The Boss seems determined to keep using his platform to speak truth to power – loud and clear.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
