Hayley Williams Responds to Criticism Over Anti-Trump Speech at iHeart Festival

Hayley Williams Responds to Criticism Over Anti-Trump Speech at iHeart Festival


Hayley Williams, the lead vocalist of Paramore, recently responded to accusations that she read a scripted speech criticizing former President Donald Trump during her band’s performance at the iHeart Music Festival. In an Instagram story shared on September 22, Williams addressed a comment questioning whether she had been “paid or blackmailed” into making her statement.

Williams explained that while she had typed out her speech in advance and had a crew member hold it near the camera in case she got nervous, she didn’t end up needing to read from it because she had prepared. She also clarified that neither she nor the band received payment for their performance at the event. In a cheeky sign-off, she thanked the person for spelling her name correctly.

During her performance, Williams spoke out against Trump’s “Project 2025,” calling it a playbook aimed at controlling and punishing marginalized groups, including women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. She encouraged the audience to come together and vote in the upcoming elections to stop Trump’s agenda, urging them to take a stand at the polls.

In addition to her impactful speech, Williams made a fashion statement, donning a blue 70s-inspired outfit. Other notable artists at the iHeart festival included The Weeknd, Doja Cat, Gwen Stefani, Halsey, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who all delivered standout performances.