Rascal Flatts’ Jay DeMarcus Advocates for Separation of Entertainment and Politics

Jay DeMarcus, best known for his time in Rascal Flatts, is opening up about his stance on entertainment and politics and how, in his opinion, the two should remain separate. The multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer, and vocalist expressed his opinion on social media, elaborating on how he believes entertainers should allow fans to enjoy their art without trying to influence their political beliefs. 

“I am one of those people that believes entertainment and politics shouldn’t mix,” he began in a statement posted Thursday. “When I go to the movies to see my favorite actor, or go to a concert to enjoy some great music, I want to enjoy his or her’s art without it being convoluted by them telling me who I should or shouldn’t vote for.”

While DeMarcus says he understands and respects that some artists “feel the need to use their platforms to influence people” he says he never has and doesn’t plan to. 

What that being said, he believes that the current political climate is particularly divisive and said he finds himself saddened that the American people “cannot find more common ground.”

“God knows both sides of the isle (sic) have their issues,” he went on to acknowledge and later added, “That is why I think it is even more important to not believe the lies of the media. Edited clips, comments taken out of context to fit narratives, information presented as facts that are blatant lies are common place.”

He urged individuals to engage in their own fact-finding efforts and do their own research rather than blindly following media narratives, friends, or even family members.

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“Do not be a follower. Do not listen to your friends. Don’t even listen to your family! Whatever you do, don’t take what some talking head on TV says as the Gospel truth. My message is simple-do your own fact finding, do your own research, learn where candidates stand on issues, you might be surprised by what you find,” he wrote. 

In closing, DeMarcus encouraged those reading his post to get out and vote. 

“One of the greatest liberties we have as Americans is WE THE PEOPLE get to choose who our leaders are,” he stated. “We have a voice!!! So vote your conscious, vote your heart, vote your convictions but vote knowing WHAT you’re voting for!!” 

Jay DeMarcus’ post was flooded with comments as many people applauded him for his way of thinking. 

“I wish everyone in the entertainment world felt this way. I like them better when they don’t involve politics,” one Instagram user wrote. 

Another added, “Jay I agree when I go to a concert I am not paying to attend a political rally and quite frankly I have not gone to some concerts because of this. I go to enjoy the music that’s it.”

The 2024 United States Election Day is set for ⁦Tuesday, November 5. Early voting and absentee voting and vote-by-mail options are also available. Visit USA.gov to learn more.