Jack White will perform during halftime of the Detroit Lions’ Thanksgiving game next week, but the moment might create drama.
The 50-year-old musician has spent the past year openly criticizing President Donald Trump, and many fans think he might make another political statement during the show. And after Bad Bunny’s controversial selection as the Super Bowl halftime performer in February, Trump surely is not impressed by this.
White, best known for creating the hit “Seven Nation Army,” has become one of rock’s most recognizable artists. He hasn’t held back his opinions since Trump returned to office last November. He has compared Trump’s movement to Nazi Germany and accused him of trying to destroy democracy. His words have created debate every time a major political event has happened.
A Collision Course With Trump Again
Jack White hasn’t held back when it comes to Donald Trump.
After the election, he said Americans knowingly voted for a “fascist” and warned that the country would now deal with the outcome. He said he worries about Project 2025, mass deportations and what he believes are threats to LGBTQ rights, climate policy and the education system.
“It’s absolutely dumbfounding that this con man succeeded in pulling the wool over so many Americans eyes,” he wrote.
His comments continued through the year. In August, he mocked a photo of Trump with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and made fun of the Oval Office decor, saying, “Look at how disgusting Trump has transformed the historic White House. It’s now a vulgar, gold leafed and gaudy, professional wrestler’s dressing room.”
White responded again, saying he refuses to stay quiet and called Trump “a danger to America and the world.” He said no “smart person” could support him.
He also shut down rumors that he banned Trump supporters from his concerts, saying everyone is welcome and that false posts online created the claim. White’s merch even includes a $30 shirt that says “Icky Trump,” based on his song “Icky Thump.”
His Thanksgiving halftime show in Detroit comes just after his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, and with Trump recently attended a Lions game in Washington, where Amon-Ra St. Brown copied Trump’s YMCA dance after scoring, and that is why many expect tensions and political reactions when White takes the stage.
