Bruce Springsteen Trashed by His Own Hometown Paper Over Hypocritical Anti-Trump ‘Resistance’ Tour
Bruce Springsteen in concert at Manchester, England, screen image via Instagram, May 14, 2025.
Bruce Springsteen’s latest tour, which includes sharp criticism of President Trump, is drawing backlash rather than praise. Even in his home state, coverage has turned negative, with critics focusing on the high cost of tickets and the pricey “No Kings” merchandise being sold at shows.
Some observers argue that, like others in the entertainment world, Springsteen’s political messaging has overshadowed his music. His long-standing image as a voice for working-class Americans is now being questioned, and critics suggest that this shift could hurt his connection with longtime fans.
According to a report highlighted by Breitbart News, NJ Advance Media journalist Bobby Olivier strongly criticized Springsteen’s concert at the Prudential Center in Newark. Olivier described the event as “hypocritical” and accused it of profiting from what he called legitimate political protest.
In his column for NJ.com, Olivier pointed out what he sees as a contradiction between Springsteen’s public persona and his business practices. He noted that premium tickets for the Newark show reached as high as $2,900, prices that remained in place despite pushback from fans. He also mentioned that “No Kings” flags were being sold inside the venue for $90.
Additionally, Olivier criticized the decision by Springsteen’s merchandise team to secure a legal order blocking unauthorized T-shirt sales outside the venue. He contrasted this with the presence of independent vendors—often working-class individuals—who typically sell merchandise at other events without interference.
Springsteen’s politically charged performances have been a central part of his “Land of Hope and Dreams” tour, announced in February. Throughout stops in cities such as Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Newark, he has repeatedly voiced opposition to President Trump.
Critics say the tour reflects a broader shift in Springsteen’s public role, moving away from music toward political activism. Some believe that if he had stepped back from performing earlier, his legacy as a musician might have remained less controversial.
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