Bruce Springsteen has never been one to bite his tongue—and during recent shows in Manchester, he made his views on Donald Trump crystal clear. Between songs, ‘The Boss’ took time to address the crowd and deliver a stinging critique of the former president’s leadership.
“In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years,” Springsteen said. “It is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous administration.”
It didn’t take long for Trump to respond.
True to form, the former president took to Truth Social to fire back, launching into a characteristically angry tirade. “I see that Highly Overrated Bruce Springsteen goes to a Foreign Country to speak badly about the President of the United States,” he wrote. “Never liked him, never liked his music, or his Radical Left Politics… he’s not a talented guy—Just a pushy, obnoxious JERK…”
Trump’s post quickly escalated into a broader attack on Springsteen’s political affiliations, accusing the singer of backing “Crooked Joe Biden” and branding him part of a cultural elite that’s out of touch with everyday Americans.
But Springsteen’s criticism of U.S. politics is nothing new. He’s long used his platform to express frustration with those in power, crafting songs that speak to injustice, inequality, and disillusionment. From his early work to his most recent performances, politics has never been far from his lyrics.
Here are five of his most politically charged songs that show just how deep his convictions run:
- ‘Lost In The Flood’ (1973)
From his debut album Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J., this track is a haunting portrait of a Vietnam veteran returning home to a country in chaos. Instead of celebration, he finds urban decay, violence, and disillusionment. The song questions what exactly the soldier was fighting for—a theme that would echo through much of Springsteen’s later work. - ‘Roulette’ (1998)
Originally written after Springsteen’s involvement in the 1979 No Nukes concerts, ‘Roulette’ captures the fear and uncertainty faced by families caught in a nuclear emergency. Delivered with urgency and grit, it remains one of his most intense political statements—painting a chilling picture of government neglect and looming catastrophe. - ‘Born in the U.S.A.’ (1984)
Frequently misunderstood as a patriotic anthem, this song is anything but. It tells the story of a Vietnam vet who comes home to indifference and hardship, highlighting the gap between American ideals and reality. Inspired in part by Springsteen’s meeting with veteran Ron Kovic, the track remains a raw and critical look at how America treats its soldiers. - ‘Long Walk Home’ (2007)
Taken from the Magic album, this track was a pointed reflection on the George W. Bush era. It’s about losing faith in your country—and the slow, painful journey to reclaim it. As Springsteen put it, the “long walk” represents both a personal and national reckoning, hinting at a deep erosion of values and trust. - ‘American Skin (41 Shots)’ (2014)
Perhaps his most controversial song, ‘American Skin’ was written in response to the 1999 killing of Amadou Diallo by four NYPD officers. While some viewed it as an anti-police anthem, Springsteen actually took a more nuanced approach, acknowledging the fear on both sides of the badge. The song sparked backlash—especially from law enforcement—but remains a powerful example of Springsteen’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
Springsteen’s recent comments may have reignited tensions, but they’re part of a much longer legacy of protest, resistance, and unwavering belief in the American ideal—even when its reality falls short.
