Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized country music artist Zach Bryan over his contentious new song that takes aim at ICE operations, despite the star stating that the track embodies his love for America.
Noem expressed her feelings of “disappointment and disheartenment” after hearing the brief demo of Bryan’s song “Bad News,” which debuted on October 3.
“I hope he realizes how utterly disrespectful that song is, not only to law enforcement but to this nation as well,” Noem told conservative podcaster Benny Johnson during a conversation on Tuesday.
“To the countless individuals who have defended our freedoms, he has undermined it all by releasing a piece that targets those simply working to keep our communities secure,” Noem added.
Bryan, 29, shared a short clip on social media, labeling the post “the fading of the red white and blue.”
The song narrates the struggles of the main character, who is neither “dead nor in jail,” and is surrounded by a poor influence of friends.
“I heard the cops came
Cocky motherf—kers, ain’t they?
And ICE is gonna come bust down your door.”
Bryan mentions how children are filled with fear, housing construction is at a standstill, yet everyone remains glued to their phones, even as bars lose their social appeal.
“The middle fingers rising, and it won’t stop showing
Got some bad news
The fading of the red, white and blue.”
Noem addressed the song’s controversy during a brief media session in Portland, just after federal agents took several illegal immigrants into custody, including a suspect in a child rape case, as reported by Johnson.
She revealed her lack of interest in Bryan’s music, stating she was pleased to have never supported him financially. “Zach, I didn’t listen to your work. I’m grateful for that today. It’s comforting to know I never contributed to your lifestyle if that’s truly what you believe your song represents,” Noem remarked.
Noem extended her support to other country artists like Jason Aldean, John Rich, Jon Pardi, and Kid Rock.
“These artists understand what standing up for freedom truly means,” she indicated. “I’m relieved I didn’t waste any resources on Zach.”
Noem also pointed out Bryan’s perceived hypocrisy in producing an anti-law enforcement song while utilizing police protection at his concerts.
“What makes law enforcement special is their unwavering commitment, defending even those who criticize or disrespect them. They are the role models I want my grandchildren to emulate,” she commented.
The Department of Homeland Security targeted Bryan by using his song “Revival” in a video showcasing federal agents conducting raids nationwide, as noted in a recent post on X.
In response to the backlash surrounding his song, Bryan asserted that it reflects his love for the country and its people above all.
“When you hear the complete song, you’ll grasp the full context and it resonates with individuals from both sides of the political spectrum,” Bryan wrote on Instagram on late Tuesday. “Those using this now as a weapon are solely highlighting how tragically divided we are as a nation. Finding a way back is essential.”
“I’ve served this country. I love this country, and the essence of this song is about overcoming our division. I didn’t write this from the vantage point of a politician or as a self-important person, just as a 29-year-old trying to navigate this chaotic landscape. The uproar really unnerves me, and it’s disheartening to see how polarizing we’ve become. Left or right, we’re all part of the same bird—American.”
Bryan emphasized his neutral stance, stating he “stands neither with the radicals on either side.”
“To all those on both sides who are let down by me, please remember I’m doing my best and sometimes our words get misinterpreted,” Bryan shared.
“The past few months have subjected me to more scrutiny than I ever imagined possible. It’s been challenging to maintain my footing while trying to find my wings at the same time.”
“I am immensely proud to serve in a country where we can express ourselves freely and engage in discussions without facing threats online or, even worse, to avoid the violence and heartbreak we have witnessed recently!”
