With Election Day in the United States approaching on November 5, Rihanna has taken to social media to encourage her fans to exercise their voting rights. Despite her inability to vote herself, she passionately urged her followers to make their voices heard in the upcoming election.
In a video shared on her X account on November 4, Rihanna expressed the importance of participating in democracy. She stated, “When protecting p–sies and firing p–sies can happen all in one vote #votecauseicant #TanSuitSeason,” referencing a humorous yet pointed message about the current political climate. The video features her speaking from a vehicle, emphasizing her call to action.
Rihanna’s remarks appear to be a direct jab at Donald Trump, invoking a notorious statement he made during a 2005 Access Hollywood recording. The audio, which surfaced just weeks before the 2016 election, included Trump saying, “grab ’em by the p—-.” This controversial comment has lingered in the public discourse, particularly as Trump has made light of it at his recent rallies.
During a rally in North Carolina on November 4, Trump humorously compared mechanical arms used by SpaceX to the way one would hold a child, saying, “See? Much better. Years ago I would’ve said something else but I’ve learned.” He continued by reminiscing about how he would have previously phrased things in a more risqué manner.
Just days prior, Trump echoed similar sentiments at a rally in Virginia, using the imagery of a parent holding a child to explain how he has modified his rhetoric over the years. “In the old days, I would have said like you grab your… girlfriend,” he stated, indicating a shift in his language while maintaining a casual approach to the past comments.
The enduring controversy surrounding Trump’s remarks highlights the ongoing tensions in American politics, particularly concerning attitudes towards women. Rihanna’s call for voting serves not only as a reminder of civic duty but also as a critique of political figures whose words and actions have raised significant concern among many voters.