Additional Coverage:
- Bruce Springsteen’s anti-ICE speech leaves fans divided: ‘I stand with ICE NOT Bruce’ (irishstar.com)
Bruce Springsteen’s Fiery ICE Remarks Ignite Debate, Even Among Fox News Viewers
Music icon Bruce Springsteen is no stranger to stirring emotion, but his recent impassioned plea against ICE actions in Minneapolis has sent ripples of discussion far and wide – even prompting unexpected agreement from some Fox News viewers.
The “Boss” made an unscheduled appearance at New Jersey’s Light of Day festival on January 17, where he paused his performance to deliver a powerful address regarding escalating tensions in Minnesota. Specifically, Springsteen spoke out against the unrest following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, concluding his remarks by unequivocally telling ICE agents to “get the f— out of Minneapolis!”
Footage of the 76-year-old’s address was later posted by the conservative news outlet Fox News on January 21, along with a partial transcript. In the clip, Springsteen passionately urged those who believe in democratic rights and the right to protest to “send a message to this president,” echoing the Minneapolis mayor’s call for ICE to leave the city.
An NJ.com reporter also captured Springsteen’s full remarks, which began with him discussing his 1978 hit, ‘The Promised Land,’ describing it as an homage to “American possibility” and “the beautiful but flawed country that we are, and to the country that we could be.” He then transitioned to denouncing current events and the Trump administration’s use of ICE, encouraging the crowd to voice their opposition.
“If you believe in democracy, in liberty, if you believe that truth still matters, that it’s worth speaking out, that it is worth fighting for,” Springsteen declared, “If you believe in the power of the law and no one stands above it, if you stand against heavily armed masked federal troops invading American cities and using Gestapo tactics against our fellow citizens. If you believe you don’t deserve to be murdered for exercising your American right to protest, then send a message to this president, and as the mayor of that city has said, ‘ICE should get the f— out of Minneapolis.'”
The comments sparked a lively reaction on social media. Surprisingly, some Fox News viewers expressed support for Springsteen’s stance.
One commenter noted, “What he said reflects real pain and concern over recent events in Minneapolis. Lots of people think there should be accountability and clearer limits on federal enforcement.”
Another added, “Bruce Springsteen using his platform to call out injustice and honor Renee Good’s memory is powerful stuff.” A third social media user emphasized the importance of free speech and accountability: “In times like these, artists speaking up reminds us that free speech and the right to protest matter more than ever.
We need accountability and transparency from ICE, especially when a US citizen and mother of three loses her life. Let’s keep pushing for justice and better policies that protect everyone.
Respect to The Boss for not staying silent.”
However, not everyone applauded Springsteen’s remarks. Critics took to social media to express their disapproval of his political commentary during a concert.
One detractor firmly stated, “I stand with ICE NOT bruce,” while another dismissively questioned, “…who is this random hobo and why should anyone care what he says?”. Further criticism included questions about the effectiveness of celebrity activism and playful jabs like, “Oh, those poor fans, Preachy Bruce on the loose.”
The incident highlights the ongoing national conversation surrounding immigration policies, federal enforcement, and the role of public figures in political discourse, proving that even “The Boss” can ignite a passionate debate that transcends traditional political divides.