Nelly Criticizes Kamala Harris, Defends Trump Inauguration Performance

Rapper Nelly faced significant backlash after performing at President Donald Trump's inaugural Liberty Ball in January 2025, prompting him to clarify that his performance was out of respect for the office and not an endorsement of any candidate. In multiple interviews and social media posts, Nelly emphasized that he did not campaign for or support any presidential candidate and criticized those who spun narratives against him. He also defended fellow artist Snoop Dogg, who performed at a similar Trump event, highlighting their long-standing community work supporting Black families and youth through nonprofits and scholarships. Additionally, Nelly took aim at Vice President Kamala Harris, criticizing her record as a prosecutor for incarcerating many Black individuals and referencing her marriage to Doug Emhoff, whom he described as a "white husband." He expressed frustration over the public's focus on his performance rather than Harris's policies, stating that he and Snoop Dogg are Black men married to Black women with Black children and should be seen as positive role models. Overall, Nelly maintained that his respect for the presidency remains intact despite the controversy surrounding his appearance at the Trump event.