Hayley Williams, the renowned lead vocalist of Paramore, recently made a forceful statement to her followers, declaring, “If you choose to vote for Ron DeSantis, you’re completely alienating yourself from me.”
During a Paramore concert, Maxwell Frost, a freshman Democrat representing Florida in the House of Representatives, displayed his discontent towards the state’s governor. Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, Frost passionately shouted an expletive, expressing his dissatisfaction with Ron DeSantis and condemning what he perceives as fascism.
Notably, this incident followed closely after Hayley Williams herself voiced her strong opposition to the 2024 GOP presidential candidate during a live performance. In Washington, D.C., Frost, an ardent music enthusiast and Democratic legislator, took the stage alongside Paramore towards the end of their set. Together, they played one of the band’s iconic songs and utilized the opportunity to engage in powerful political discourse before their devoted fans.
Viral video clips circulated online, capturing Williams introducing Frost to the exhilarated crowd just before their performance of “Misery Business” from Paramore’s album “Riot!,” released in 2007. Williams handed Frost the microphone, asking if he had anything to share with the audience. In response, the congressman seized the moment, passionately pointing into the crowd and vociferously exclaiming, “Down with Ron DeSantis! Down with fascism!” Williams casually shrugged, and the crowd erupted in an impassioned frenzy.
Subsequent footage from later in the concert revealed that Williams and the band graciously allowed Frost to take the microphone during their rendition of “Misery Business.” The politician enthusiastically joined in, dancing and singing along with the lead singer, effectively connecting with the music and the message it conveyed.
Following the concert, Frost took to Twitter to address his controversial comment, succinctly stating, “I stand by what I said.” In response to a video shared by a conservative account, he nonchalantly replied, “It’s amusing how upset they are.”
Expressing his gratitude for the moment, Frost reacted to a video capturing his performance, acknowledging the countless hours he had spent honing his skills, even in the privacy of his own shower.
Frost’s sentiments aligned with those of Hayley Williams, who, during another Paramore concert in New Jersey, openly criticized any supporters of Ron DeSantis in the audience. Fearlessly asserting her stance, Williams proclaimed, “I have no qualms discussing politics,” just days after DeSantis had announced his presidential campaign. She made it clear that supporting Ron DeSantis would result in the end of any connection with her.
Addressing the crowd, Williams posed the question, “So, is that clear enough for everyone?” firmly establishing her unwavering position and encouraging the audience to confront their own political beliefs.