This is very good advice.
Rock music icon Gene Simmons is reminding Americans of something that used to be common sense: political beliefs are personal—and they don’t need approval from anyone else.
During a recent interview on CNN’s Inside Politics, Simmons urged viewers to step back from today’s nonstop political outrage and stop fixating on how friends, neighbors, or public figures vote.
Speaking with host Manu Raju, the longtime frontman of KISS said Americans have become far too comfortable demanding political explanations from one another—something he believes is unhealthy for the country.
Simmons made it clear that personal political support is a matter of conscience, not public interrogation. He criticized the growing trend of labeling people based on partisan loyalty and questioned when that behavior became socially acceptable.
“It’s Their America Too”
When asked about the Make America Great Again movement within the Republican Party, Simmons avoided ideological grandstanding. Instead, he offered a message of perspective and tolerance.
Some ideas, he said, resonate with him, while others do not—but none of that should justify hostility toward fellow Americans.
He emphasized that disagreement is not a crisis, and that diversity of thought has always been part of the American experience. According to Simmons, people would be better served by showing humor, patience, and restraint—rather than obsessing over political differences.
For many older Americans who remember a time when neighbors could disagree without resentment, the message struck a familiar chord.
A Personal Interaction With President Trump
Simmons also shared details about a recent private conversation with Donald Trump, which took place after a Kennedy Center honor ceremony earlier this year.
Rather than politics, the discussion focused on family, children, and everyday life. Simmons explained that he had known Trump for decades—long before Trump entered public office—and described the exchange as personal and respectful.
The moment served as a reminder that not every interaction involving public figures needs to revolve around political conflict.
Supporting Fair Pay for American Artists
In addition to speaking out on cultural issues, Simmons has been active on Capitol Hill advocating for musicians’ rights. Earlier this month, he testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in support of the American Music Fairness Act.
The bipartisan proposal would require AM and FM radio stations to compensate performers when their music is broadcast—bringing traditional radio into alignment with digital and streaming platforms that already pay royalties.
Supporters argue the bill corrects a long-standing imbalance in U.S. copyright law while still protecting small, local radio stations through reasonable flat-fee structures.
The House version was introduced by Darrell Issa, while the Senate effort is led by Marsha Blackburn and Alex Padilla.
Notably, more than a dozen conservative organizations have encouraged House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune to support the measure.
A Cultural Message Beyond Politics
At a time when celebrities are often expected to deliver partisan talking points, Gene Simmons chose a different approach—calling for unity, perspective, and a return to basic respect.
For Americans over 50 who value free speech, personal liberty, and national cohesion, the legendary rocker’s comments echoed a sentiment many believe Washington—and the media—have forgotten.
