The Rock The Country festival, originally scheduled to take place in Anderson, South Carolina, faced backlash and artist withdrawals that prompted organizers to issue a statement defending their mission. A representative emphasized that the festival was created to unite audiences through music, reflecting a diverse range of voices and backgrounds. The decision to cancel the event in Anderson was disappointing for organizers who believe in providing a show that meets their fans' expectations, especially given the hard work fans put into attending such events.

Festival organizers reiterated their commitment to supporting artists and honoring fans while fostering music and community pride. They made it clear that the core values of Rock The Country include inclusivity and a celebration of the nation's spirit rather than a political agenda. They expressed disappointment over the ramifications of the artists’ withdrawals but remain focused on delivering quality experiences across the remaining shows.

The incident has highlighted ongoing tensions in the music industry regarding political disclosures and artist participation. With a growing divide among artists and audiences concerning political discourse, festivals like Rock The Country aim to carve a space for unity through music, opposing the notions that national pride and appreciation of America should carry political connotations. This stance may resonate well with certain demographics while potentially alienating others who view such declarations as inherently political.