Bruce Springsteen Slams Trump, Announces Protest Festival Near Washington/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Bruce Springsteen announced a major protest festival near Washington, D.C., featuring artists including Foo Fighters and Joan Baez. The event, called “Power to the People,” will take place a month before the 2026 midterm elections. Springsteen sharply criticized the Trump administration during a concert appearance announcing the festival.
Bruce Springsteen Protest Festival Quick Looks
- Protest festival scheduled for Oct. 3.
- Event to be held in Columbia, Maryland.
- Springsteen and Tom Morello announced lineup.
- Festival tied to activism and voter engagement.
- Foo Fighters and Dave Matthews joining lineup.
- Proceeds support voting rights organizations.
- Springsteen criticized Trump administration on stage.
- Festival arrives weeks before midterm elections.
- “ICE out!” chants led by Springsteen.
- Event combines music and political activism.
Deep Look
Bruce Springsteen Launches Political Protest Festival
Bruce Springsteen announced a major political protest festival Wednesday while performing in Washington, D.C., intensifying his ongoing public criticism of President Donald Trump and his administration.
The one-day event, titled “Power to the People,” is scheduled for Oct. 3 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, roughly one month before the 2026 midterm elections.
The festival is being promoted as a gathering focused on:
- Freedom
- Justice
- Equality
- Rock ’n’ roll
Star-Studded Lineup Announced
Springsteen unveiled the festival alongside Tom Morello during a joint performance at Nationals Park.
The lineup includes:
- Foo Fighters
- Dave Matthews
- Brittany Howard
- Joan Baez
- Dropkick Murphys
- Jack Black
- Serj Tankian
- Killer Mike
- Taylor Momsen
- The Linda Lindas
Organizers said portions of ticket proceeds will benefit:
- VoteRiders
- HeadCount
Both organizations focus on voter participation and election access.
Springsteen Delivers Political Message on Stage
During the Washington concert, Springsteen performed several politically charged songs, including:
- “American Skin (41 Shots)”
- “Streets of Minneapolis”
The latter referenced killings by federal immigration agents.
Springsteen directly attacked the administration during remarks to the audience.
“The Gestapo tactics of this president and this administration will not stand here,” he said.
He also urged audience members to become politically active:
“This American tragedy can only be stopped by the American people: you. There is no one coming to save us. We’ve got to do it ourselves.”
“So join us and let’s fight for the America that we love. Do you hear me, Washington?”
Tom Morello Emphasizes Activism Theme
Morello described the festival as more than a concert event.
“It’s about the power everyday human beings have when they come together through music, art, community and action,” Morello said.
“We’re honored to bring this incredible lineup to the DC area for a day that celebrates the spirit of activism, creativity, and hope.”
The event reflects a growing trend of musicians combining political organizing with entertainment ahead of major elections.
Longstanding Clash With Trump
Springsteen has repeatedly criticized Trump over the years, particularly on issues involving immigration, democracy and civil rights.
Trump has responded publicly by attacking Springsteen and calling for boycotts of his performances.
The president previously labeled Springsteen a:
“total loser who spews hate.”
At Wednesday’s concert, Springsteen also led crowds in chants of:
“ICE out!”
The slogan targeted Immigration and Customs Enforcement and underscored the festival’s broader political message.
Festival Arrives Ahead of Crucial Midterms
The event comes as:
- Democrats attempt to energize voters
- Republicans defend congressional majorities
- Cultural figures become increasingly vocal in national politics
Organizers say the festival aims to merge music, activism and voter participation into a single high-profile public event.
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