Damus
Lyn Alden profile picture
Lyn Alden
@LynAlden
The media calling Oliver Anthony’s song a right wing anthem when 1) it doesn’t mention political parties or specific politicians and 2) has rather broad appeal across anti-establishment types in general is inaccurate but predictable imo.

Now, I think one valid criticism is that if someone were to write a song called “Rich Men North of Richmond”, and it only criticizes one fiscal policy in the song, then food stamps (assistance aimed at the poor) probably isn’t the best one to pick. There is no shortage of fiscal programs that siphon money towards corrupt rich people (eg defense contractor graft), which would be more on-theme to pick.

But imo that doesn’t detract from the song much. And this unfortunately happens a lot. Usually the fiscal programs that benefit the rich tend to be harder to explain and more obfuscated than ones aimed at the poor (eg food stamps buying unhealthy things vs massive Pentagon or Medicare corruption). By design.
2219❤️90🤙63❤️1👍1💜1🫡1
Micah541 · 133w
Yes. I’m on the left and I find it a little bit obnoxious how they described this as “right wing.” Unless “fudge rounds” is a racist dog whistle that I’m not aware of, I don’t think this qualifies as right wing and it’s not helpful to get all worked up about a country song. I mean...
Deon · 133w
So criticising the rich in the US makes you right wing. Right ho.
Brunswick · 133w
Welfare for the poor has as much cantillion effect as welfare for the rich. In both cases, it uses fiat money creation to leech from the productive and unbinds cultural regulation of ethics.
joiestylotus · 133w
I haven’t heard his song yet but I know a lot people like Oliver Anthony. Blue Collar folks should be voting for Democrats cuz otherwise, they’re voting AGAINST their self interests. Ditto 🏳️‍🌈people. Anyway, I don’t wanna discuss American politics but that’s my 2 cents. You ...
Jeremy M. Boles · 133w
If detesting taxes and pedophilia are "right wing", then just call this anarchist "right wing". But just goes to show how horrible most leftists have become.
nobody · 132w
Its a red state song
Chipster · 132w
A beautiful song. My only problem is that it blames the rich and not the system that actually empowers them. But try substituting "cause the system is inflation" for the line "cause of rich men north of Richmond". Just doesn't have the same kind of pull.
@IsabelSydow Queen of Shrimps (but u can call me Dan.) · 132w
Amen!!! Absolutely correct!!!!!https://media.tenor.com/hmx5VOJU0YQAAAAC/raquita-preach.gif
DrD · 132w
Agree with your points. I suspect food stamps was simply an example that his audience would understand. It would be hard to find another example that could be conveyed in a line or two in a way that all could understand and resonate with.