Dolly Parton Rallies Behind Hillary Clinton: ‘I’ll Certainly Be Behind Her’
As one of the most successful stars in country music, Dolly Parton is certainly an advocate for women. And that mindset bleeds over into her politics, too: The singer says that having Hillary Clinton as president would be "wonderful."
"Hillary might make as good a president as anybody ever has," Parton tells the New York Times. "I think no matter if it’s Hillary or Donald Trump, we’re gonna be plagued with PMS either way — presidential mood swings! But I personally think a woman would do a great job. I think Hillary’s very qualified."
Parton adds, "So if she gets it, I’ll certainly be behind her."
Parton is one of many country artists who have made their opinions known during this presidential election season: Justin Moore vocalized his support for Trump, telling Taste of Country, "At the time, Trump is my guy. I’m a Republican, and I think it’s gonna take something out of the box in order for them to win the presidency. He’s gotta tone down some things …," while the Dixie Chicks are using a video montage on their DCX MMXVI World Tour to visually express their anti-Trump views during "Goodbye Earle." Additionally, Bonnie Raitt is a fan of Bernie Sanders ... and Eric Church admits that the upcoming election feels like a WWE match.
In addition to being vocal about her presidential choice, Parton has also been extremely supportive of the LGBTQ movement over the past years. When fans come to her concerts dressed as the country star herself, she's all about it.
"I think it’s fun! You know, we usually have boys all dressed like me, and so when I do "Jolene" and I see a bunch of drag queens out there, I start singing [to the tune of the "Jolene" chorus] 'Drag queen, drag queen, drag queen! Please don’t take my man!' [Laughing]" Parton admits. "I have a huge gay following, and I’m proud of them. Sometimes some of them look more like me than I do."
The legendary artist is also steadfast in her belief that women in country are not simply a garnish, as 2015's "Saladgate" controversy suggested.
"Some of our greatest writers ever [are women], like Cindy Walker, Cynthia Weil — you can just reel them off one after another — Carole King," Parton notes. "We’re beautiful, too, but I think women are very smart, very talented and should have every right to express what talent God has given them. They should get their just dues."
Parton is currently on her 2016 Pure and Simple Tour. More information is available on her official website.
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