• Simmons tells CNN’s Manu Raju that political beliefs should remain private
  • KISS frontman received Kennedy Center Honor from Trump earlier this month
  • Rocker recently testified before Senate on American Music Fairness Act

WASHINGTON, DC (TDR) — KISS frontman Gene Simmons downplayed politics during an interview with CNN on Sunday, urging Americans to stop worrying about their neighbors’ political beliefs.

Keep Your Politics to Yourself

“It’s nobody’s business who you support,” Simmons told Manu Raju on CNN’s “Inside Politics.” “Nowadays, people engage in, ‘So are you pro or,’ and my first question is, who the f— are you? Who are you? Since when does who I support or not support is the business of anyone except my conscience?”

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

MORE NEWS: Clinton Epstein Depositions Expose Bipartisan Accountability Gap

When Raju asked Simmons about the Make America Great Again wing of the Republican Party, the rock legend offered a measured response.

“Some of it makes sense and some not. But literally, have a sense of humor. Take a pill, shut up and stop worrying what your next-door neighbor believes or doesn’t believe. It’s their America too.”

Kennedy Center Honor From Trump

Simmons’ call for tolerance comes weeks after he and his KISS bandmates received Kennedy Center Honors from President Donald Trump, who personally presented the awards in an Oval Office ceremony. The rock icons were honored alongside Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor, George Strait, and Michael Crawford.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

Do you think there is more to the story about the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie that we're not being told?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from The Dupree Report, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

Simmons noted he has known Trump for over two decades, with both men having been raised in the Queens borough of New York City. “Whether you’re a fan of the president or not, he’s never boring,” Simmons said.

The honor came during a bittersweet moment for KISS, as original guitarist Ace Frehley passed away in October at 74. His daughter accepted the medal on his behalf.

A Complicated Political History

Simmons’ measured comments represent a shift from his previous criticism of Trump. In 2022, he told Spin magazine that Trump was “out for himself” and criticized him for encouraging conspiracy theories and public expressions of racism.

“I knew him before he entered politics. Look what that gentleman did to this country and the polarization — got all the cockroaches to rise to the top,” Simmons said at the time.

MORE NEWS: Greene Calls Iran Strikes “Worst Betrayal” as MAGA Splits

KISS also turned down a reported invitation to play Trump’s first inauguration in 2017.

Capitol Hill Advocacy

Simmons was on Capitol Hill earlier this month to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee in favor of the American Music Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation that would require AM and FM radio stations to pay recording artists when their songs are broadcast.

“American artists have never been paid for radio airplay,” Simmons told senators. “Not one cent.” The bill would align traditional radio with digital and streaming platforms that already pay artists royalties.

The legislation is sponsored by Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA).

Can Americans heed Simmons’ advice to stop judging neighbors by their political beliefs, or has polarization become too deeply entrenched?

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10