Carrie Underwood is gearing up to perform at President-elect Donald Trump's swearing-in ceremony. Throughout her 20-year career, the "All-American Girl" crooner has mostly avoided voicing her political opinions. But the former "American Idol" winner expressed her love for the United States when she agreed to perform at the momentous occasion. "I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event," Underwood, who will be joined by the Armed Forces Choir and the United States Naval Academy Glee Club, said in a statement. "I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future."
Joy Behar Questions Carrie Underwood's Patriotism
The Oklahoma native captured the hearts of many on "American Idol" in 2005. After her victory, Underwood achieved instant success with singles such as "Jesus, Take The Wheel" and "Before He Cheats" off her debut album, as well as "Some Hearts," which became the best-selling debut album of all time by a solo female country artist. She went on to release eight more studio albums, including "Carnival Ride" (2007), "Play On" (2009), "Blown Away (2012) and more.
Underwood's Stance on Politics and Role Model Image
With a widespread fan base ranging from evangelical Christians to the LGBTQ+ community, Underwood's political stance has often been at the center of debate. "There is someone I do support, but I don’t support publicly," the country star told TV Guide in 2008. "I lose all respect for celebrities when they back a candidate. It’s saying that the American public isn’t smart enough to make their own decisions. I would never want anybody to vote for anything or anybody just because I told them to."
Underwood's Personal Life and Views on Marriage
Underwood currently resides in Nashville with her husband, former NHL center Mike Fisher, and their two sons, Isaiah, 9, and Jacob, 5. During an interview with The Guardian in 2019, Underwood expressed her frustration over people trying to "pin [her] places politically." "I try to stay far out of politics if possible, at least in public, because nobody wins," Underwood told the outlet. "It’s crazy. Everybody tries to sum everything up and put a bow on it, like it’s black and white. And it’s not like that."
Support and Criticism for Underwood's Inauguration Performance
The criticism only heightened after agreeing to perform at Monday's inauguration. While some questioned her decision, others stood up to support the country star's move. Country singer John Rich responded on X to Underwood's decision to perform, writing, "THERE SHE IS:) Carrie is a Patriot." "The View" co-host Joy Behar called out Underwood last week and questioned how the singer could possibly love America.
Looking Ahead for Carrie Underwood
With 2025 in full swing, Underwood is looking ahead as she gears up for a full-circle moment: judging the next season of "American Idol." "I went from nobody knowing my name to tens of millions of people watching the show," she said in a video revealing her new job last year. "I’m proud of everything I was able to accomplish on the show, and I’m so proud of everything I’ve accomplished since."
