PORTLAND, Ore. — Pop star and actress Reneé Rapp made headlines Monday night after delivering a fiery political message during her “Bite Me” tour stop at Portland’s Moda Center, taking direct aim at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and former President Donald Trump.
A Charged Moment on Stage
Rapp, best known for her breakout role in HBO’s “The Sex Lives of College Girls” and the 2024 film adaptation of “Mean Girls,” paused mid-show to address the crowd. While the audience cheered, Rapp’s tone shifted as she referenced the ongoing ICE presence and federal activity in Portland.
“We are very, very, very excited to be here with you,” she began, smiling. “You’re a wonderful, wonderful city.”
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Then her mood changed. “And it just happens,” Rapp continued, “that we’re here at the same time some people who shouldn’t [expletive] be here are.”
The crowd roared as Rapp launched into a string of expletive-laced remarks aimed squarely at immigration enforcement and national leadership.
“Let’s Get a Couple Things Abundantly Clear”
“So let’s get a couple things abundantly [expletive] clear,” Rapp said before unleashing her strongest comments of the night:
“[Expletive] ICE. [Expletive] this administration. And [expletive] Trump.”
The artist’s words drew loud cheers and applause from the packed venue, reflecting Portland’s long history of political activism and protest culture. A video clip of the moment has since circulated widely on social media, sparking both praise and backlash.
Portland’s Climate of Protest
Rapp’s comments came amid heightened tensions in Portland, where federal agencies, including ICE and the National Guard, have been visible in recent weeks following waves of demonstrations. The city has become a focal point for debates over immigration enforcement and federal intervention, particularly since Trump’s order deploying troops to several Democratic-led cities.
Artists performing in Portland have increasingly used their platforms to voice opposition to federal actions, echoing the city’s activist spirit. Rapp’s statement added her voice to that chorus, aligning her with other performers who have spoken out against immigration policies and political divisions nationwide.
Audience Reactions and Viral Response
Audience members posted clips from the show within minutes, with some calling the moment “iconic” and others criticizing the star for politicizing her performance. Supporters praised Rapp’s outspokenness, saying her willingness to use her stage for advocacy was “brave and necessary.”
Despite the mixed reactions online, Rapp has not walked back her remarks. Representatives for the artist declined to comment further, but her message from the Moda Center stage left no ambiguity.
The Portland stop was part of Rapp’s nationwide Bite Me tour, which continues through November.
