Story perspectives

Springsteen Calls Trump Racist, Announces Festival, Sparks Boycott

5/28/2026

Summary

Springsteen Denounces Trump

At his May 27 Washington, D.C., concert, Bruce Springsteen denounced President Donald Trump as racist and treasonous, urging attendees to chant “ICE out now” and demand action at the White House.
Springsteen announced Oct. 3 “Power to the People” festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring Foo Fighters and Joan Baez.
Proceeds will benefit VoteRiders and HeadCount while President Donald Trump called Springsteen a “total loser who spews hate” and urged a boycott.

Summary

Republican Fans Protest

Republican fans called themselves “closeted” fearing White House retaliation, despite Metropolitan Police saying no extra security.
GOP strategist Chris Pack sold three Cleveland tickets in 90 minutes at a loss to protest Springsteen’s tour.
Former Rep. Tom Davis called Springsteen a “class traitor,” while his wife said she’d rather be shot.
Fans paid $500+ for pit seats and criticized Live Nation’s dynamic pricing amid a DOJ antitrust settlement.

History

Historical Context

Rock Against Racism began in 1976 to counter the National Front’s rise, staging 1978 carnivals that drew roughly 100,000 protesters and musicians like The Specials. The movement’s 1979 London concert raised funds for anti-racist charities. Decades later, Bruce Springsteen’s May 27, 2024 D.C. show echoed that legacy, using a high-profile gig to denounce President Trump.

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Springsteen Denounces Trump

At his May 27 Washington, D.C., concert, Bruce Springsteen denounced President Donald Trump as racist and treasonous, urging attendees to chant “ICE out now” and demand action at the White House.
Springsteen announced Oct. 3 “Power to the People” festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion, featuring Foo Fighters and Joan Baez.
Proceeds will benefit VoteRiders and HeadCount while President Donald Trump called Springsteen a “total loser who spews hate” and urged a boycott.

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