Reneé Rapp Critiques Trump Administration in Portland Performance

Reneé Rapp delivered a powerful message during her recent performance in Portland, Oregon, addressing the current political tensions in the United States. Her remarks came in the wake of President Donald Trump‘s announcement last month regarding the deployment of troops to Portland. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated he had instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to protect federal immigration facilities from what he termed “domestic terrorists,” authorizing the use of “full force if necessary.”

As she prepared to perform, Rapp expressed her discontent with the political climate. She directed her comments toward the audience, stating, “at the same time, some other people who shouldn’t f***ing be here are …” She then firmly articulated her stance: “Let’s just make a few things abundantly f***ing clear. F*** ICE. F*** this administration. And f*** Trump,” the singer of “Too Well” declared.

In an interview with The Independent last month, Rapp reflected on her reputation for being blunt, explaining the influence of social media on public perception. “I come across that way because I actually will just play so far into whatever vibe that I’m in,” she noted. Rapp acknowledged the negative framing often associated with her statements, saying, “Now it’s become, ‘Oh, she’s unfiltered or controversial or is gonna say something that people will engage with online or she’s a b**** or ungrateful.’ I don’t know why.”

Rapp is not alone in using her platform to express criticism of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Earlier this month, country star Zach Bryan faced backlash from supporters of the Trump administration after releasing a teaser for his new song, “The Fading of the Red White and Blue.” The lyrics describe ICE agents breaking down doors and leaving children frightened, highlighting the emotional toll of immigration enforcement.

Bryan sings, “Didn’t wake up, dead or in jail / Some out of town boys been given a cell / I’ve got some bad news, woke up missing you / My friends are all degenerates but they’re all I got.” He continues with poignant imagery about the impact of law enforcement actions, stating, “The generational story of dropping the plot / I heard the cops came, cocky motherf***ers ain’t they? / And ICE is gonna come bust down your door.”

In response to the criticism, Bryan clarified his stance, emphasizing that he does not support either “radicalized side” in politics. He described himself as “a 29-year-old man who is just as confused” by America’s division “as everyone else.”

The comments from both Rapp and Bryan reflect a broader trend among artists to engage with political issues and influence public discourse. As the landscape of American politics continues to evolve, performances like Rapp’s in Portland serve as a reminder of the role art can play in shaping conversations around pressing social issues.