In a recent appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime, musician Kid Rock took aim at former First Lady Michelle Obama for her decision to skip President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration. The rock star, known for his outspoken support of Trump, expressed his disappointment, framing her absence as a missed opportunity for bipartisanship.
“She seems a little angry,” the 54-year-old performer remarked during the interview, just days before the historic event.
Kid Rock’s Own Inauguration Story
Kid Rock, whose real name is Robert James Ritchie, reflected on his experience performing at former President Barack Obama’s Youth Inaugural Ball in 2009, despite not voting for him. He shared the stage with rapper Kanye West and rock band Fall Out Boy at the Hilton Washington hotel, a decision he says was motivated by respect for the office of the presidency.
“I would kindly remind her that years back, when Obama was first elected, I did not vote for him. But they asked me to play the inauguration, and I played it,” Kid Rock explained. “I had a good time. I went out of respect for the president, and I would kindly remind Michelle about that.”
Michelle Obama’s Absence Sparks Controversy
The Office of Barack and Michelle Obama confirmed that while former President Obama will attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies, Michelle Obama will not be present. The announcement follows her absence from former President Jimmy Carter’s recent funeral in Washington, D.C., further fueling speculation about her decision to forgo Trump’s swearing-in.
Although no specific reason was provided for her expected absence, sources close to the planning committee for Trump’s inauguration claimed they were unfazed. “They didn’t expect her to come anyway,” a source told Page Six, adding that the team found humor in the situation.
The Obamas were present for Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, making Michelle’s absence this time more noticeable.
Other Attendees Confirmed for the Event
President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden are expected to attend the historic ceremony alongside former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton and their wives, Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton. The bipartisan turnout highlights the importance of unity in the nation’s democratic traditions.
Kid Rock’s Role in Trump’s Inauguration
Despite being a vocal supporter of Trump, Kid Rock revealed that he declined an invitation to perform at the inauguration. Instead, he has been involved in the event’s planning and teased his contribution to the celebrations.
“I’ve spent so much time on this,” he said, hinting at a detailed plan he had developed. “I put it all down on paper to the minute. Everything choreographed.” However, he noted that some of his more ambitious ideas, such as pyrotechnics and performers on poles, were vetoed by the Secret Service.
Instead, the “All Summer Long” singer is set to headline the “Make America Great Again Rally” at Capital One Arena to cap off the day’s events.
A Broader Discussion on Respect for the Presidency
Kid Rock’s comments underline a broader conversation about respect for the presidency, regardless of political affiliations. By sharing his own experience of setting aside political differences to perform for Obama, he highlighted the importance of honoring democratic traditions.
As the nation prepares for Trump’s inauguration, the focus remains on fostering unity amidst division. Whether Michelle Obama’s absence will continue to spark debate or fade into the background remains to be seen.
