Robert De Niro Expresses Deep Discontent with Current U.S. Leadership
Veteran actor Robert De Niro declared that Donald Trump’s presidency has fundamentally altered his ability to feel love for the United States, delivering a passionate address at the Rise Up, Sing Out concert in New York City on Sunday.
“Our country isn’t so lovable right now,” De Niro stated at the event held at Town Hall. He drew a stark analogy, remarking, “I hate to say it, but loving our country is starting to sound like an abused spouse saying they love their abuser.”
Context of the Event
The concert was organized by the Committee for the First Amendment, an organization revived nearly 80 years after its initial founding by Jane Fonda. Partnering organizations, including No Kings and Indivisible, underscored the event’s apparent anti-Trump sentiment.
De Niro, 82, shared the stage with other notable figures, including Jane Fonda and Julia Roberts. His remarks came on the same day he celebrated his 80th birthday, which coincided with a UFC event held at the White House.
De Niro’s Criticisms of U.S. Policy
The Oscar winner launched a scathing critique of Trump’s administration, targeting both foreign and domestic policies. “I can’t love a country that starts stupid and inhumane wars. Killing thousands of innocents and indirectly causing the deaths and suffering of millions more,” De Niro articulated.
He further elaborated on his grievances, stating, “I can’t love a country that takes healthcare away from millions of people and uses that money to enrich their pals in the Trump–Epstein class. I can’t love a country that sends out masked militias to shoot citizens in the streets, torture our neighbors, and separate families.”
Directly addressing the current political climate, De Niro declared, “I can’t love a country that’s led by a racist, misogynist, xenophobic tyrant. And let me just say it, I can’t love the country that’s led by Donald Trump. And a sycophant Congress.” His words were met with significant applause from the audience.
Nostalgia for a Loved America
De Niro clarified that his current feelings are a departure from his past sentiment. “For most of my life, of course, I did love this country,” he said. “The United States of America welcomed my immigrant ancestors. It gave me, my family, and my fellow citizens such rich opportunities and extraordinary freedoms.”
He expressed a desire for reconciliation, stating, “I want to love my country again. I want my country back.” De Niro urged attendees to join the cause, saying, “That’s why I stand with the committee for the First Amendment. And you, all of you. Together we rise up, we sing out, we keep organizing, and we fall in love again.”
Echoes of Past Statements and Audience Engagement
Analysis of De Niro’s recent public statements suggests a consistency in his criticisms. His speech on Sunday echoed remarks made earlier in the year at the State of the Swamp summit in Washington, D.C.
De Niro also made a lighthearted jab at the White House event, reportedly quipping, “Welcome to all of you who couldn’t get tickets to the White House cage fight.” He emphasized his right to free speech, stating, “When I hear something I don’t like, I use my own free speech to respond.” He then recounted a strong reaction to a reported statement by Trump, saying, “Let me give you an example: when I hear Trump say, as he did a few days ago, ‘I don’t care about Americans’ financial situation, not even a little bit,’ I say, ‘Shut the f*** up.'”
Other Speakers and Attendees
Julia Roberts also addressed the crowd, encouraging them to “breathe in all that hope” and “breathe out all that fear.” She wore a T-shirt honoring Jane Fonda, styled similarly to Shepard Fairey’s iconic “Hope” poster, and a sport coat with a red, white, and blue lining.
Roberts urged the audience to confront difficult realities, stating, “We all feel like, ‘I can’t turn the news on, I don’t want to hear it.’ But we have to hear it; we have to face it. But if we keep inhaling and exhaling, we will prevail.”
Historical Significance of the Committee for the First Amendment
The Committee for the First Amendment boasts a significant history, with Jane Fonda reviving the organization. It was originally founded in 1947 by prominent Hollywood figures including director John Huston, director William Wyler, screenwriter Phillip Dunne, and actress Myrna Loy. The initial membership comprised liberal stars who opposed the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings, including Fonda’s father, Henry Fonda.
The committee became less active as members sought to avoid potential blacklisting by film studios. Jane Fonda reinstated the organization following Donald Trump’s election.
Notable Appearances at the Event
The concert featured a diverse array of performers and activists. Jane Fonda, who hosted, was joined on stage at one point by comedian Ayo Edebiri. Other notable attendees included Joy Reid, who wore a white suit, and Tessa Thompson, who sported a tan double-breasted suit. Patti Smith was seen with a smile, raising her fist in solidarity, while Lily Gladstone appeared in a dark brown canvas jacket. Children’s entertainer Ms. Rachel was also present, wearing her signature pink T-shirt and denim overalls.
