Barbra Streisand, a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, has long been known for her unwavering political views and activism. Her recent remarks regarding former President Donald Trump have reignited discussions about celebrity influence in political matters. Following the release of her poignant song “Don’t Lie to Me,” which critiques the former president, Streisand has made headlines once again, expressing her deep concerns about the potential re-election of Trump in the upcoming 2024 presidential race.
During an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Streisand didn’t mince words as she articulated her feelings towards Trump, labeling him as “so stupid” and “ill-informed.” With a tone that resonated with urgency, she stated, “I can’t live in this country if he becomes president,” suggesting a drastic move away from her homeland if Trump were to secure another term in office. Her comments have sparked debate about the role of celebrities in politics and the impact of their opinions on public sentiment.
This is not the first instance where Streisand has threatened to leave the United States should Trump remain in power. In fact, she is among a number of celebrities who have publicly declared their intentions to relocate to other countries in the face of political dissatisfaction. After Trump’s victory in 2016, many prominent figures in the entertainment industry claimed they would move to places like Canada or even distant planets. Streisand, however, has remained consistent in her criticism of Trump, emphasizing her belief that the nation was “great” prior to his presidency.
As a long-time supporter of the Democratic Party, Streisand has never shied away from expressing her disdain for Trump. She has previously referred to him as “the Liar in Chief” and “the Groper in Chief,” underscoring her feelings about his presidency. Her criticisms extend beyond mere rhetoric; they are deeply rooted in her artistic expressions. In 2018, she released her 36th album, “Walls,” a project inspired by the political climate during Trump’s presidency. In interviews surrounding the album, she explained that the songs were born out of her heartbreak and frustration with the state of the nation.
Streisand’s activism is not just a product of her musical endeavors; it is also a significant theme in her memoir, “My Name is Barbra.” In this memoir, she contemplates the relationship between art and politics, posing an essential question: “Why does it make so many people angry when artists speak out?” She believes that artists serve as “a country’s conscience,” providing a mirror to society and challenging the status quo. Streisand argues that art can amplify voices that often go unheard, particularly in oppressive political climates, asserting, “That’s why art is the enemy of tyrants and dictators.”
Despite her influential voice, Streisand acknowledges the challenges of swaying public opinion. In interviews leading up to the 2016 elections, she expressed disbelief at the political landscape, stating, “He has no facts. I don’t know, I can’t believe it.” At that time, she humorously suggested she might relocate to Australia or Canada. Other celebrities echoed similar sentiments, with comedian George Lopez joking about returning to Mexico and Chelsea Handler expressing her resolve to stay in the U.S. after reconsidering her options post-election.
The reactions of celebrities like Jon Stewart, who contemplated a journey to another planet due to the state of the world, or Cher, who quipped about moving to Jupiter, highlight a cultural trend among public figures seeking to escape political strife. However, such comments often land in the realm of humor, with many choosing to stay and fight for change rather than abandon their homeland.
Reflecting on the aftermath of Trump’s presidency, Streisand expressed a sense of relief with the election of President Joe Biden. In a 2021 interview, she noted, “the country is certainly headed in the right direction,” praising Biden’s compassion, integrity, and dedication to truth. This sentiment resonates with her ongoing belief in the need for accountability in leadership.
In her writings, Streisand has voiced a desire for a transformed America. She calls for a nation free from pollution and negativity, one where “the nobility of truth” is restored. Her vision for the future encompasses a profound hope for unity and honesty in political discourse. She believes that America can only regain its greatness by prioritizing truth and rejecting divisive rhetoric.
@cher Donald will NEVER be president! If he’s elected I’m moving to Australia mark my words
— Gabe (@gabeAlfassy) June 16, 2015
With the 2024 elections on the horizon, Streisand remains vigilant, expressing concerns about Trump’s potential return to power. During her discussion with Colbert, she reiterated her unwillingness to live in a country governed by someone she considers dangerous and uninformed. If she were to follow through on her threat to leave, she expressed a preference for England, highlighting her fondness for the country and its culture.
Amid the tumultuous political landscape, celebrities like Streisand play an essential role in shaping public discourse. Their platforms allow them to voice opinions and rally for change, inspiring fans and followers to engage with critical issues. Whether through music, interviews, or social media, artists have the power to provoke thought and encourage dialogue about the values that underpin society.
As we navigate the complexities of contemporary politics, the question of how celebrities use their influence remains pertinent. Are they merely entertainers, or do they have a responsibility to speak out against injustice? In an era where art and politics intersect more than ever, Streisand’s commitment to advocacy reminds us of the importance of using one’s voice for meaningful change.
As the nation braces for the upcoming elections, the reflections of figures like Streisand challenge us to consider the future we envision for our country. What kind of America do we aspire to build, and how can each of us contribute to that vision? The conversation is open, and the stakes are high, making it all the more vital for individuals to express their thoughts and engage with the world around them.
Through art and activism, Streisand and her contemporaries remind us that the fight for a just society is ongoing and that every voice matters in the quest for progress.