Bruce Springsteen labeled ‘hypocrite’ after warning of ‘dark times’ in America at Minneapolis show

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Bruce Springsteen used the opening night of his 'Land of Hope and Dreams American Tour' to deliver a series of blunt political remarks, drawing both praise and backlash from audiences and online users.

Performing in Minneapolis on March 31, Springsteen spoke at length between songs, warning about what he described as a troubling moment in the country’s history. His comments quickly spread beyond the concert venue, sparking a polarized reaction on social media.

Bruce Springsteen’s political remarks

Springsteen delivered four speeches during the show, criticizing the current administration and broader national issues, according to Variety.

"We are living through some very dark times," he told the crowd mid-show. "Our American values that have sustained us for 250 years are being challenged as never before. We’ve got our young men and women’s lives at risk in an unconstitutional and illegal war. This is happening now."

"There are immigrants being held in detention centers around the country and being deported without due process of law to alien countries and foreign gulags. This is happening now," he said.

Springsteen also criticized the Justice Department and the White House, adding, "While working Americans struggle, our president and his family enrich themselves by billions of dollars trading on the people’s office in corruption unmatched in American history. This is happening now.

"This White House is destroying the American idea and our reputation around the world," he added. "To many, we are no longer looked upon as an often imperfect but strong defender of democracy standing for the global good. We are no longer the land of the free and the home of the brave. We are now, to many, America the reckless, unpredictable, predatory rogue nation. That is this administration’s and this president’s legacy. This is happening now."

Critics slam hypocrisy claims

The remarks triggered sharp criticism from some concertgoers and users on X, with detractors questioning his message and concert.

"Bruce you’re a big hypocrite, I never like you so I have never been in one of your concerts, and even if you charge five dollars for  a ticket, I never will. Love America, Love President Trump," one user commented.

"Now listen to Bernie sanders. The same messages. The rich trying to preach hate," another wrote.

One called out, "Another concert, another political rant. People came for the music, not a lecture," while another said, "I come to listen to music, not his Liberal view point."

"Based on his beliefs his concerts should be free and there shouldn’t be security or police presence," another added.

Users also criticized his political remarks during the concert, noting the high ticket prices, with one saying, "No one wants to pay a fortune for a ticket to listen to him spew his delusional view on politics." 

"He's got no problem taking your money though . $500 a seat," another said.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.