Luke Bryan Defends Bringing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Stage at Florida Concert: ‘I’ve Generally Stayed Out of Politics’
usmagazine.comLuke Bryan responded to backlash after Florida governor Ron DeSantis made an appearance at his Friday, October 28, concert in Jacksonville.“I typically don’t respond to stuff when I’m getting run down on a social platform but here’s the deal,” the American Idol judge, 46, shared in a statement via Twitter on Sunday, October 30. “I understand Governor Desantis is a very polarizing figure.
But I grew up in a country where if a governor ask you if they can come and raise awareness to help victims of a natural disaster you help.”One month after Hurricane Ian, many Florida residents are still recovering from the storm’s devastating effects.
The governor — who is currently running for re-election against Charlie Cryst — has made headlines several times this year for signing controversial bills inhibiting discussion of sexual orientation, transgender issues and race in classrooms.
His appearance alongside Bryan stirred strong reactions on both sides of the political spectrum.DeSantis, 44, tossed out campaign hats as he took the stage with the “Country On” singer. “Thanks for letting me crash the party last night, @lukebryan!” the politician tweeted after the show.Bryan, however, said this wasn’t an endorsement for the candidate. “I’ve generally stayed out of politics throughout my career,” he explained. “I knew people would chatter about this but for me the more important piece was If I am going to come back there a few weeks after a large portion of people have been affected by a natural disaster in a state where people have been good to me this felt right.”The country star added that he hoped to simply, “Raise awareness, have a little fun between the GA and FL college fans before the game and do what I love on stage.”He
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