Jack White’s upcoming Thanksgiving halftime performance for the Detroit Lions has the potential to rekindle tensions between the NFL and Donald Trump, especially given White’s harsh criticism of the President in recent months. The renowned guitarist, known for his anthem “Seven Nation Army,” has likened Trump’s MAGA movement to Nazi Germany and accused him of “dismantling democracy” since returning to office.
White will perform during the Lions’ game against the Green Bay Packers, following the controversy surrounding Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance. After Trump’s recent election victory and his subsequent actions, White expressed dismay at the supporters of the Republican Party, referencing a Turkish proverb about trees voting for an axe. In a lengthy Instagram post, he outlined fears over potential policies Trump could enact, describing him as a “known, obvious fascist.”
In prior remarks, White criticized Trump’s aesthetic changes to the Oval Office, calling it vulgar and likening it to a “professional wrestler’s dressing room.” The White House rebuked him, labeling him a “washed up, has-been loser.” White countered by asserting that he won’t remain silent about what he views as the dangerous rise of autocracy under Trump, stating, “This man is a danger to not just America but the entire world.”
Recently, White addressed rumors that he barred MAGA supporters from his concerts, clarifying that he has never made such statements. He aims to share his music with anyone interested, regardless of political affiliation. Additionally, he sells “Icky Trump” protest t-shirts on his website, a nod to one of his popular songs. The halftime show will take place shortly after his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with Eminem serving as the executive producer for the event.
