Rock icon Bruce Springsteen, known for his politically charged lyrics and outspoken criticism of U.S. leadership, delivered a scathing rebuke of President Donald Trump’s administration during a concert in Berlin on Wednesday. Addressing a packed audience at the Olympiastadion, the 75-year-old musician called the current U.S. government “corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous,” igniting cheers from fans and reigniting debates about the role of artists in political discourse.
Springsteen, performing as part of his ongoing world tour, paused midway through his set to share his thoughts on the state of American politics. “I’ve been singing about the soul of this country for decades,” he said, gripping the microphone stand. “But what we’re seeing now in Washington is a betrayal of everything we’ve fought for—decency, truth, and the working people. This administration is corrupt, incompetent, and, yeah, I’ll say it, treasonous.” The crowd erupted in applause, with many waving signs that read “Born to Resist,” a nod to Springsteen’s 1975 anthem “Born to Run.”
The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the U.S., where Trump’s second term has faced criticism over economic policies, foreign relations, and domestic unrest. Springsteen, a long-time advocate for blue-collar workers and progressive causes, has never shied away from confronting political figures. His 1984 album Born in the U.S.A., often misunderstood as a patriotic rallying cry, critiqued the treatment of Vietnam War veterans and the erosion of the American Dream—themes that resonate in his current activism.
In Berlin, Springsteen’s comments were particularly pointed, referencing recent controversies surrounding Trump’s administration, including allegations of mismanagement in federal agencies and strained alliances with European nations. “They’re selling out the future of our kids for a quick buck and a cheap headline,” he said, before launching into “Wrecking Ball,” a song written in response to economic hardship and political neglect. Fans described the moment as electrifying, with social media posts capturing the energy of the crowd’s response.
Springsteen’s outspokenness has drawn both praise and backlash. Supporters view him as a voice of conscience, using his platform to hold power accountable. “He’s saying what so many of us feel,” said Anna Müller, a 32-year-old Berliner at the concert. “He’s not just a musician; he’s a storyteller who sees the truth.” Critics, however, argue that entertainers should stay out of politics. On X, conservative commentators accused Springsteen of hypocrisy, pointing to his wealth and celebrity status. One user posted, “Easy to call out ‘corruption’ from a private jet. Stick to singing, Bruce.”
The Berlin concert is part of a broader European tour that has seen Springsteen address global issues, from climate change to workers’ rights. His performances remain a cultural touchstone, blending nostalgia with urgency. Wednesday’s setlist included classics like “Thunder Road” and “Dancing in the Dark,” alongside newer tracks that reflect his dismay at political polarization. “Music can’t fix everything,” he told the audience, “but it can remind us what we’re fighting for.”
Springsteen’s criticism of Trump is not new. During Trump’s first term, he endorsed Democratic candidates and performed at rallies, while his songs, like “American Skin (41 Shots),” tackled issues of police violence and racial injustice. Yet his decision to call the administration “treasonous” marks a sharper tone, reflecting the deepening divide in American society.
