Seattle rapper and Grammy winner Macklemore is under fire following a video capturing him making inflammatory remarks during a pro-Palestine festival in Seattle over the weekend. In the footage, the 41-year-old artist was heard saying, "F*** America" on stage, sparking outrage and debate on social media. The Seattle Kraken and Seattle Sounders FC responded with a joint statement, expressing their concern over his divisive comments and asserting that his views do not align with their values.

The incident took place at the "Palestine Will Live Forever Fest" in Seattle's Seward Park, where Macklemore addressed the festival audience, urging them to continue talking before making the controversial statement that elicited cheers from the crowd. The backlash intensified with some social media users criticizing the rapper for his disrespectful comments towards the country that facilitated his rise to fame. Others defended his right to express his views on a contentious global issue.

Stand With Us NW, a nonprofit organization focusing on Israel education, highlighted Macklemore's alleged insensitivity towards Israeli victims of Palestinian terror and called for a more balanced advocacy for peace between the two peoples. Meanwhile, regional directors and community members expressed varying perspectives on the rapper's comments, with opinions ranging from disgust to appreciation for his efforts to raise awareness about global conflicts.