Entertainment
Jelly Roll defends political stance as 'down the middle' after backlash from Trump supporters
The country music star responded to criticism from his guest-hosting stint on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and announced plans to vote this November.
The short version
- Country artist Jelly Roll addressed backlash from Donald Trump's supporters after making jokes about the former president's weight while guest-hosting "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"
- He described his political beliefs as "down the middle" and announced plans to vote in November following a December 2025 pardon that restored his voting rights.
- Florida State Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis publicly criticized the singer, declaring him unwelcome in his state legislative district.
Key facts
- While guest-hosting "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", Jelly Roll made several jokes targeting Donald Trump, including comparing his own recent 300-pound weight loss to "an entire Donald Trump."[The Hill]
- In response to criticism from Trump supporters, Jelly Roll stated in a Thursday monologue that he leans left on some issues but is mostly "down the middle," identifying as a Christian, farmer, bow hunter, and country singer.[The Hill]
- Florida GOP Rep. Jimmy Patronis criticized the singer on social media, claiming Jelly Roll is "no longer welcome" in his Florida Panhandle district and accusing him of "Trump Derangement Syndrome."[The Hill]
- Jelly Roll revealed that he had previously avoided aligning with political parties in part because his felony record prevented him from voting.[The Hill]
- Tennessee Governor Bill Lee pardoned Jelly Roll in December 2025 for past felony convictions, including a 2005 robbery, which restored his right to vote in March 2026.[The Hill]