Barbra Streisand, the iconic singer and actress, has been outspoken about her political views, and she made it clear once again that she would leave the United States if Donald Trump wins the 2024 presidential election. In a recent interview with Stephen Colbert, Streisand, 81, voiced her frustration, calling Trump “so stupid” and “ill-informed.” Her statement reiterates a sentiment she has expressed before, including during the 2016 election, though she never followed through on her vow to leave after Trump’s victory that year.
Vocal Critic of Trump and His Administration
Streisand has long been a vocal critic of Trump, often using her platform to express her discontent with his leadership. She has repeatedly referred to him as “the Liar in Chief” and “the Groper in Chief.” Her 2018 album Walls was a direct reflection of her political views, with songs like “Don’t Lie to Me,” which was inspired by the political turmoil of the Trump era. In interviews about the album, Streisand shared her disillusionment with the constant stream of misinformation and divisiveness under Trump’s administration.
She has continued to call out what she sees as the assault on American democracy, expressing her concerns about the country’s future in stark terms: “We’re in a war for the soul of America.”
The Role of Artists in Political Discourse
Streisand’s activism extends beyond her music. In her 2023 memoir My Name is Barbra, she elaborated on why artists should remain politically engaged, asking why it angers some people when artists speak out. She argues that artists serve as a nation’s conscience, using their work to reflect the times and challenge the status quo. “Art is the enemy of tyrants and dictators,” she wrote, emphasizing the role of artists in giving a voice to the voiceless and exposing the truths that others may wish to ignore.
Despite her strong efforts, Streisand acknowledged that her influence couldn’t change the course of the 2016 election. Still, she remains firm in her belief that the country’s political landscape needs to change.
Streisand’s Continued Criticism of Trump
Since Trump’s election in 2016, Streisand has continued to speak out against his policies and actions. She has been a strong supporter of Joe Biden, praising his “compassion, honesty, and integrity” in a 2021 interview. In an essay for Variety, Streisand described Trump’s tenure as damaging to America’s global standing, criticizing his “breathtaking ignorance” and “laughable boasts.” With the 2024 election on the horizon, she remains concerned about the possibility of Trump’s return to office and the impact it would have on the country.
Possible Move Abroad If Trump Wins Again
As the 2024 election draws near, Streisand’s frustration with Trump’s potential second term remains palpable. She reiterated her intention to leave the U.S. if Trump wins, joking that she might consider moving to England, a country she has expressed a fondness for. Streisand emphasized the need for a new America—one that is free of pollution, insults, and revenge—arguing that only by restoring “the nobility of truth” can America truly become great again. As political discussions about border security continue, Streisand may need to act quickly on her promise, especially if plans to build a wall along the Canadian border come to fruition.
