Jewel Embraces MAHA With Trump Inauguration Day Performance
The singer thanked RFK Jr. for “sacrificing so much to Make America Healthy Again.”
Amy E. Price/Getty Images
Folk singer Jewel took the stage last night at the “Make America Healthy Again” ball for an unexpected performance.
Health and Human Services nominee and MAHA movement leader Robert F Kennedy Jr. introduced Jewel Kilcher, known as Jewel, who sang a rendition of “Over the Rainbow.”
“Now about a week ago I got a call from the woman who is Cheryl’s favorite musical artist in her whole life,” RFK Jr. said, referencing his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, who stood behind him on stage. “And she said she’s going to come and sing to the crowd tonight.”
He introduced Jewel, who thanked RFK Jr. for “sacrificing so much to Make America Healthy Again.”
Jewel announced she was going to sing a song she hadn’t written, but feels matches the mood of the moment.
RFK Jr. (and family) at MAHA inaugural ball introduces surprise guest Jewel, who sings Over the Rainbow, though you wouldn’t know it from her inventive intro. pic.twitter.com/CwBeyHALUs
— Paul Bond (@WriterPaulBond) January 21, 2025
“I think it sums up the hope that founded America and that I think we’re all feeling again,” the singer said, before breaking into an acapella version of “Over the Rainbow.”
Get the best of The Beast delivered right to your inbox
By clicking “SUBSCRIBE” you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Jewel was uncharacteristically silent on social media about her appearance at the ball. The singer instead posted on Inauguration Day about a panel on AI in medicine she had attended earlier this month. Eagle-eyed fans noticed the lack of acknowledgement and commented on her performance instead.
“Girl, we lost all respect for you hanging with RFK,“ one commenter said. ”You need to sit down.”
“Hanging out with RFK Jr but claiming to care about public health is next level hypocrisy,” another said.
Others were pleased with Jewel’s newfound MAGA allegiance.
“Somewhere over the rainbow was beautiful! I hope and pray we can all stop the hate and come together. Love you,” a fan wrote.
The singer has never endorsed any political candidates or causes, but has been an outspoken mental health advocate.
See more of our coverage in your search results.
Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here.
Register below to read this article for free or subscribe
to unlock unlimited access to The Daily Beast.
Monthly
$1
First month then $5.99/month
Annual
$35
First year then $59.99/year
Premium
$79
First year then $119.99/year
*Substack access provided by the next business day, using your subscription email. Choosing the Premium plan constitutes your permission to share your subscription email with Substack and your agreement to Substack’s Privacy Policy.
Already have an account? Sign In
Looks like you already have a subscription!
You're all set!
Thanks for subscribing.