Trump Uses Eminem Lyrics in Capitol Riots Lawsuit Defense 🎤

President Trump’s legal team invoked Eminem in a motion to dismiss a lawsuit related to January 6. AllHipHop reported on Monday (January 27) that Trump adopted a “rapper defense” to refute claims of inciting the Capitol riots in 2021. This lawsuit, filed weeks post-riots, accuses Trump along with organizations like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers of orchestrating efforts to impede Congress’s certification of the 2020 election.

Rep. Bennie Thompson pointed out the Ku Klux Klan Act, a historical law intended to stop conspiracies that hinder federal officials’ duties. Following an unsuccessful bid to dismiss the case, Trump appealed, contending that his remarks on January 6 are protected political speech. His legal representatives likened his statements to rap lyrics, referencing Supreme Court cases where violent rhetoric was interpreted as artistic expression rather than incitement.

In a nod to Eminem’s song “’97 Bonnie & Clyde,” without directly naming the artist, Trump’s lawyers remarked: “A rapper ascends to the charts due to his bold, inflammatory lyrics that gain widespread popularity, especially among restless youth. He is considered one of the most provocative lyricists ever. Many of his lines depict graphic violent behavior, including gun violence and sexual assault, as well as a disturbing scene of the rapper drowning his spouse. While some lyrics indicate that his art is not meant to promote actual violence, others provide a stark contrast.”

Trump’s Defense of His Speech and Eminem’s Advocacy for Free Expression at Kamala Harris Rally

Moreover, they highlighted Trump’s encouragement for supporters to protest “peacefully and patriotically” as a refutation to claims of incitement.

His lawyers declared, “Nothing in President Trump’s address even approaches the far more incendiary statements that the Supreme Court has recognized as legally protected.” They added, “President Trump’s January 6 speech…is rightly viewed as ‘robust protests against the government and existing social order’—a context that demands utmost respect for free speech and protection against censorship.” The judiciary has not yet made a ruling, as the case is still in progress.

In the meantime, Eminem, known for his criticism of Trump, made a rare appearance at Kamala Harris’ Detroit rally during the 2024 elections. He briefly spoke to the audience, stating, “People should have the freedom to voice their opinions without fear. I don’t believe anyone desires a country where individuals are anxious about retaliation for expressing their thoughts.” He noted, “I believe that Vice President Harris envisions a future for our nation where such liberties, along with many others, will be safeguarded and honored.”