Poison's Bret Michaels pulls out of Trump-backed Freedom 250 concert over 'safety' concerns

Bret Michaels of Poison became the latest artist to pull out of the Trump-backed 'Freedom 250' concert series, citing safety concerns and the event's increasingly divisive tone. Michaels was set to perform at the Great American State Fair, a 16-day event at the National Mall running June 25 through July 10. In an Instagram post, Michaels said the event was pitched to him as a "celebration" of America and a tribute to "veterans, active military, first responders, teachers, and hardworking Americans from all walks of life."

"As many of you know, I've spent my entire career bringing people together through music, positivity, and good vibes. My shows have never been about politics. Unfortunately, what was presented to us as a celebration of our country has evolved into something much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of," Michaels said, adding that he had received threats he described as "unfounded" and "unforgivable"; however, he did not elaborate on their nature or origin.

Michaels reiterated that his decision was not political. "It's about staying true to what I've always believed in. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions," he said. The Poison frontman became the fifth artist to pull out of the controversial event, which is being organised by Freedom 250 — a self-described non-partisan organisation overseeing celebrations across the country in the anniversary year.

The cascading withdrawals paint a picture of a high-profile event unraveling publicly and quickly, just days after its announcement. Michaels' exit is notable not just for the name recognition he brings, but for the reasoning: flagging safety concerns and a betrayal of the concert's original patriotic intent go beyond simple political distancing. With only Flo Rida, Vanilla Ice, and one half of Milli Vanilli confirmed, serious questions remain whether the event can deliver on its promises and continue as planned.

Country music icon Martina McBride also withdrew, alleging she was misled into believing the event was a "nonpartisan celebration" spanning all 50 states. "Sounds fun, right? Wholesome even. Yesterday, things started changing, and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening," she wrote on Instagram. Young MC, who was set to perform on June 26, dropped out as well, claiming he was never told about any political involvement. "I hope to perform in D.C. in the near future at an event that is not so politically charged," he concluded.

Morris Day and the Time and the Commodores both issued statements distancing themselves from the event. C+C Music Factory rapper Freedom Williams defended his decision to perform in an Instagram video, and affirmed that he will take the stage despite his criticism of Trump. Robert Clivillés, co-founder of C+C Music Factory, explained in a Facebook post that Williams will be performing in his individual capacity.