Poison drummer Rikki Rockett has publicly stated that he supports frontman Bret Michaels‘s decision to withdraw from the upcoming “Great American State Fair” concert series. The event, which is designed to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, is scheduled to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.. On Thursday, May 28, the Poison singer announced that he would no longer perform at the celebration, explaining that what was initially pitched as a patriotic music festival had become increasingly divisive and raised serious safety concerns.
On Friday, May 29, Rikki Rockett shared a social media post addressing the situation and defending his longtime bandmate from negative comments regarding his abilities.
“I support Bret‘s decision to pull out of the Freedom 250 event,” Rikki wrote. “What I don’t support are all the nasty remarks about Bret‘s talent thrown in to the discussion. While Bret and I disagree on many fronts, we respect each other’s artistic abilities and accomplishments as a band and individually. Bret is doing what is right for this situation for many reasons, none of which make him a coward.”
Bret Michaels‘ cancellation makes him one of several artists to withdraw from the “Great American State Fair” series of concerts, tributes, and exhibits scheduled to run from June 25 to July 10. Organized by Freedom 250, the event organizers claim the movement is entirely nonpartisan and promises to showcase all 56 U.S. states and territories in a World’s Fair-scale gathering.
In a statement published on his official website, Bret Michaels explained that the event’s original framing did not align with its current trajectory, emphasizing his commitment to non-political entertainment and supporting military veterans.
“When this opportunity was originally presented to my team, it was described as a celebration of our country through music and a chance to honor our veterans, active military, first responders, teachers and hardworking Americans from all walks of life. As the son of a veteran, and coming from a family that has proudly served, that is something I have always been honored to support.”
“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. They’re about giving people a place to come together, have a great time and forget about life’s stresses for a few hours.”
“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. Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of my fans, band, crew, family and myself, including threats that are completely unfounded and unforgivable. Because of that, I have made the difficult decision to step away from this performance.”
“This isn’t about politics. It’s about staying true to what I’ve always believed in. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. That’s one of the freedoms our veterans fought for and something I’ve always respected. But as a father, friend and bandmate, I have to take threats and safety concerns seriously.”
“I believe in our country, in the freedoms we’re afforded, and in the idea that for over 250 years we have gone through both highs and lows together and remained resilient. Music is a universal language that unites us, not divides us. Just like it did when I entertained a record-breaking crowd of over 100,000 at the St. Louis Arch for an Independence Day celebration with people from across the country who came together to honor our freedoms through music. The focus was on the music, the fans and celebrating together.”
“I will continue to proudly support our veterans, active military members, teachers, first responders and the organizations that serve them, just as I always have.”
“I also want my amazing fans in Washington, D.C. to know that I love you all, and I fully intend to come back and perform in our nation’s capital under circumstances where the focus can remain on what it should be — the music and the fans. In the meantime, we’ll keep the ‘Live & Amplified‘ tour rocking, and I look forward to seeing all of you out on the road soon.”
“This is said with much love, gratitude, and respect.”
The Freedom 250 initiative was launched last year by President Donald Trump and is currently led by businessman and philanthropist Keith Krach, who served as a Trump State Department appointee during his first term. In a statement published on his website, Keith Krach detailed his objectives for the upcoming national milestone.
“I am grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to execute his vision for Freedom 250. At its core, Freedom 250 is a national movement — bringing states, businesses, organizations, and citizens together to honor our history, cherish our God-given freedoms, and help build a golden age of opportunity for the next 250 years,” he wrote.
