Rep. Raskin Defends Springsteen Against Trump 'Loser' Diss

Congressman says 'America has no kings, but we've got one Boss' in response to White House attack on rock legend

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Democratic Congressman Jamie Raskin hit back at former President Trump after a White House communications director referred to rock icon Bruce Springsteen as a 'loser'. Raskin defended Springsteen, saying 'America has no kings, but we've got one Boss' and that the 'Boss fights for freedom and democracy for everyone'.

Why it matters

This exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions between Trump supporters and critics, with Springsteen's music and activism serving as a flashpoint. It also underscores the role that celebrity figures can play in political discourse, as both sides seek to leverage their influence.

The details

In a statement, White House communications director Steven Cheung pejoratively referred to Springsteen as a 'loser' in response to the rock star's announcement of an upcoming U.S. arena tour. Raskin, a Democratic Congressman from Maryland, fired back on social media, saying 'America has no kings, but we've got one Boss and his name is Bruce Springsteen' and that unlike Trump, 'the Boss fights for freedom and democracy for everyone'.

  • On February 18, 2026, the White House issued a statement referring to Bruce Springsteen as a 'loser'.
  • Also on February 18, 2026, Congressman Jamie Raskin responded to the White House statement on social media.

The players

Jamie Raskin

A Democratic Congressman from Maryland who is a frequent critic of former President Trump.

Bruce Springsteen

A legendary rock musician known for his politically-charged music and activism.

Steven Cheung

A communications director in the White House who referred to Springsteen as a 'loser'.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has been the target of criticism from Springsteen and Raskin.

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What they’re saying

“America has no kings, but we've got one Boss and his name is Bruce Springsteen. Unlike our faux-King, the Boss fights for freedom and democracy for everyone.”

— Jamie Raskin, Congressman (X)

“We will be rocking your town in celebration and in defense of America — American democracy, American freedom, our American Constitution and our sacred American dream — all of which are under attack by our wannabe king and his rogue government in Washington, D.C.”

— Bruce Springsteen (Billboard)

What’s next

Springsteen and the E Street Band are set to kick off a 20-show 'Land of Hope and Dreams' tour on March 31 in Minneapolis, with the tour wrapping up on May 27 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. It remains to be seen if Trump or his allies will continue to attack Springsteen and his political messaging during the tour.

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the deep political divisions in the country, with cultural icons like Springsteen becoming embroiled in the partisan battles. However, Raskin's defense of Springsteen as a champion of 'freedom and democracy' suggests that the rock legend's music and activism continue to resonate with many Americans who see him as a unifying figure above the fray of partisan politics.