Carrie Underwood Caught In Political Crossfire For Saying She Was 'Booed A Lot' On 'American Idol'
By Favour Adegoke on February 20, 2026 at 8:30 PM EST
Carrie Underwood has drawn mixed reactions online over her political affiliation after she commented about being booed on "American Idol."
At the heart of the controversy is the country music star's alleged MAGA leanings, with critics repeatedly pointing to her performance at President Donald Trump's 2025 inauguration ceremony as evidence.
Carrie Underwood has never publicly confirmed any affiliation, but did say her decision to sing at the ceremony was due to her passion for her country.
Carrie Underwood Talked About Being Booed 'A Lot' By The Hollywood Audience
After Underwood took to X to share a surprising update about her ongoing role as a judge on "American Idol," a heated debate erupted in the comments between her critics and supporters.
Underwood had revealed that she gets "booed A LOT" by the Hollywood Week audience and seemed taken aback by the reaction as she added a flushed-face emoji.
She also tagged the show in the tweet, though it remains unclear whether she was calling on producers to take action or simply highlighting the moment.
The comment from Underwood has racked up nearly 2 million views, but what drew even more attention was how it reignited intense speculation about her alleged MAGA ties.
Underwood has never publicly confirmed her political affiliation. Still, many critics have labeled her a Republican, pointing to her performance at the inaugural ceremony marking President Donald Trump's second term as the basis for their claims.
Netizens Shared Mixed Reactions Over Carrie Underwood's Comment
In the comment section, one user bluntly told Underwood that the boos were due to her alleged conservative leanings.
"Lol. You bet. You sang for a mad man," the netizen commented, referencing the singer's January 20 performance at the US Capitol.
Another critic called out the singer, saying, "You took the extra step of making sure literally everyone dislikes you. Respect."
However, some also directly supported Underwood and heaped praises on her talent.
"Forget the haters, focus on those that love you and who enjoy your talent," a user wrote.
One more person commented, "Those boos are just jealous echoes from the audience wishing they had your talent! You're the idol they all aspire to be. Shine on! "
An X user mentioned that the boos were performative as several other democrats had attended the inauguration just like Underwood.
"Funny, I seem to recall Bill and Hillary Clinton, Joe and Jill Biden, Obama, Kamala, and many other democrats in attendance at the inauguration. The TikTok generation can't seem to help themselves from constant herd virtue-signaling," another individual remarked.
The Singer Had Previously Addressed Singing At President Donald Trump's Inauguration
Ahead of her performance at the inauguration, Underwood released a statement explaining her decision to take part.
The singer said her choice was driven by a deep love for her country, and she also included a call for unity among Americans.
"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," the country star said in a statement shared on January 13, 2025, per People Magazine.
She added, "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."
Carrie Underwood Once Revealed She Prefers To Stay Out Of Politics
A clear confirmation of Underwood's political leanings may never come, as she appears to keep her views tightly guarded to avoid becoming the target of intense public scrutiny.
"I try to stay far out of politics if possible, at least in public, because nobody wins," Underwood said in a 2019 interview with The Guardian.
She continued, "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."
Still, Underwood being linked to MAGA due to her performance for Trump reportedly had her bosses at "American Idol" worried about losing viewers.
The Country Music Star Reportedly Has 'Idol' Bosses Worried As The Show Needs' Mass Appeal'
Summing up the show's position regarding the controversy plaguing Underwood, a source told Rob Shuter's #ShuterScoop that the "last thing" they want is "a judge turning into a political lightning rod."
"The show needs mass appeal," another source informed Shuter late last month. "Politics instantly split the audience, and that's the opposite of what Idol is built on."
"Once viewers stop talking about contestants and start arguing about judges, the brand takes a hit," one more insider stated.
