As rapper Macklemore draws controversy for his activism against Israel, rock stars Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews headline a "Power To The People" music festival today that features a partisan network of nonprofits and activists mobilizing against President Donald Trump ahead of the midterms.Performers from a hip-hop band, The Neighborhood Kids, launched the festival with Macklemore's anthem of protest, chanting "Free, free Palestine!" and continuing with a declaration about protesting from "the belly of the beast," against the "funding of genocide" and the "terrorist organization" Immigration and Customs Enforcement." It dedicated its performance to "the martyrs" railed against "Western imperialism."The marketing language on the "Power To The People" festival's official website speaks to activating "the power everyday human beings have" to "shape" the world "on, and beyond, Election Day."The festival bears clear signs of alignment with the Democratic Party and spotlights the intersection of pop culture, nonprofit fundraising and partisan politics, revealing how celebrity drawing power translates into money, visibility and voters for organizations advancing a political agenda.In the chat, awaiting a livestream broadcast on the Democratic-aligned MS NOW, a user wrote: "BLUE WAVE," symbolizing a anticipated Democratic Party victories in upcoming elections.Others peppered their comments with blue wave and blue heart emojis.By combining performances with voter registration, activist organizing and charitable donations, "Power ToSinger Bruce Springsteen performs at a Harris-Walz campaign rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, on October 28, 2024.
(Photo by Nathan Morris/NurPhoto via Getty Images) (Nathan Morris/NurPhoto via Getty Images)The People" offers participating groups a platform to turn fans’ enthusiasm for music into political engagement – and votes – ahead of the midterms.Festival organizers didn't respond to a request for comment.PART...