Benny the Butcher has undergone a shift in his political stance. The Buffalo-born rapper faced criticism last year for publicly supporting Donald Trump, the prominent Republican presidential candidate. In a now-deleted tweet from August, Benny declared his intention to vote for Trump in 2024. However, in an upcoming appearance on the MSNBC special "Black Men in America: The Road to 2024," hosted by journalist Trymaine Lee and civil rights attorney Charles Coleman Jr., Benny addresses his controversial endorsement.
During the interview, Benny, whose real name is Jeremie Damon Pennick, acknowledges the backlash and describes the Trump endorsement as a result of frustration with issues in his community. He emphasizes that he is not inherently political but is deeply connected to the everyday realities of his city. Benny admits to receiving criticism for his pro-Trump stance but notes that many Black individuals support Trump, though they may not openly express it.
The MSNBC special, airing at 9 p.m. ET on Sunday and streaming on Peacock, explores the perspectives of Black men in America. Benny's appearance follows the release of his fourth solo studio album, "Everybody Can't Go," where he references Trump in the titular track, suggesting a potential victory in 2024.
Despite recent uncertainties expressed by Benny regarding his vote for Trump in the upcoming election, he firmly states that President Joe Biden has not yet earned his support. In various interviews, Benny discusses the need for candidates to directly impact and benefit specific communities to motivate him to vote. He remains open to being inspired to vote but stresses the importance of tangible impacts on people's lives.