Bret Michaels has become the latest music star to withdraw from performing at the Donald Trump-aligned Great American State Fair on the National Mall.
The Poison frontman announced his decision in an Instagram post on Friday, following similar exits by Morris Day and The Time, Young MC and Martina McBride.
Read the full post on Instagram.
John Medina via Getty Images
Michaels said he originally agreed to take part because the event, which is being organized by Freedom 250, a self-described “non-partisan organization” created by presidential order to help mark America’s 250th birthday, was presented to his team as a celebration of the country “through music and a chance to honor our veterans, active military, first responders, teachers and hardworking Americans from all walks of life.”
He wrote, “As the son of a veteran, and coming from a family that has proudly served, that is something I have always been honored to support.”
Michaels said he has spent his career trying to bring people together through “music, positivity and good vibes.”
He continued, “My shows have never been about politics. There’s about giving people a place to come together, have a great time and forget about life’s stresses for a few hours.”
But he said the event had now changed from what he originally signed up for.
“Unfortunately, what was presented to us as a celebration of our country has evolved into something much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of,” he added.
Michael cited threats, writing: “Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of my fans, band, crew, family and myself, including threats that are completely unfounded and unforgivable.”
Because of that, Michaels said he had decided to pull out.
“This isn’t about politics,” he said. “It’s about staying true to what I’ve always believed in. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. That’s one of the freedoms our veterans fought for and something I’ve always respected. But as a father, friend and bandmate, I have to take threats and safety concerns seriously.”
C+C Music Factory, Vanilla Ice and Flo Rida remain on the bill for the 16-day fair.