Rock megastar Bruce Springsteen has recently made headlines with his candid criticisms of U.S. President Donald Trump and the policies of his administration. During a concert in Manchester, northern England, Springsteen described the American leader as “unfit” for office, emphasizing the urgent need for artistic expression in challenging political times.
At the opening of his concert, Springsteen addressed the audience, stating, “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.” He expressed deep concern for the state of America, saying, “In my home, the America I love — the America I’ve written about that has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years — is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.”
Springsteen’s passionate remarks did not stop there. He urged the audience to stand up for democratic values, declaring, “Tonight, we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American spirit to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism.” The impact of his words resonated throughout the venue as he encouraged unity among those present.
In a powerful moment of reflection, Springsteen stated, “The last check on power, after the checks and balances of government have failed, are the people — you and me.” He emphasized the importance of communal values in protecting democracy, asserting that “all we’ve really got is each other.” This message of solidarity struck a chord with fans and highlighted the critical role citizens play in safeguarding their rights.
Springsteen did not shy away from criticizing specific policies of the Trump administration. He lamented, “In America, the richest men are taking satisfaction in abandoning the world’s poorest children to sickness and death. This is happening now.” He further remarked on the pain inflicted on American workers and condemned the rollback of historic civil rights legislation aimed at creating a more just society.
The rock icon also voiced concern over U.S. foreign policy, stating, “They’re abandoning our great allies and siding with dictators against those struggling for their freedom.” He criticized the administration for defunding American universities that refuse to conform to ideological pressures and for deporting residents without due process. “This is all happening now,” he reiterated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Springsteen expressed hope for the future, stating, “The America that I’ve sung to you about for 50 years is real and, regardless of its faults, is a great country with great people, so will survive this moment.” His optimistic outlook serves as a reminder of the resilience of the American spirit.
The Manchester concert marked the beginning of the European leg of Springsteen and the E Street Band’s “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour, which will also feature performances in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Czech Republic. Springsteen has a history of advocating for political change, previously endorsing Kamala Harris during a campaign rally.
Springsteen's comments echo the sentiments of fellow artist Robert De Niro, who also criticized Trump during the Cannes Film Festival. De Niro stated, “In my country, we are fighting like hell for the democracy we once took for granted,” emphasizing the role of art in promoting truth and inclusivity. He urged people to stand up against Trump “without violence, but with great passion and determination,” and called for voter participation in upcoming elections.
As both Springsteen and De Niro highlight, the fight for democracy and civil rights remains critical, and artists play an essential role in inspiring action and promoting unity in these turbulent times.
