Dolly Parton‘s truly unmatched legendary status proves that she was a rare bipartisan figure who could bring people together.
Following her death on Tuesday at 80 years old, Democrats and Republicans both paid tribute to the queen of country music.
President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social, “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”
He also announced that he’ll be “lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period” beginning at 6 p.m. on Tuesday to honor Parton. “Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you,” Trump concluded.
Throughout her career, Parton had been open about maintaining an apolitical public stance by choice. “I don’t like to get involved in politics, because first of all, I have as many Republican fans as I do Democrats. I don’t want to offend anybody, I have a right to myself,” she told USA Today in 2020. “Like God gave us free will, America gave us free speech, but you’ve got to be responsible for anything you say and do.”
Former President Bill Clinton also remembered the Grammy winner and Oscar-nominated actress on X, writing, “Dolly Parton was one of a kind — a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility, and heart. She rose high from her East Tennessee roots and never forgot where she came from. And she always believed in giving back, especially in her efforts to promote literacy. Hillary and I were big fans and first saw her in 1974, and will always be grateful for the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her.”
Hillary Clinton also shared on social media, “Dolly Parton did all the good she could, for all the people she could, for as long as ever she could. From her legendary songwriting to the Imagination Library — which sent 1 million books a month to children across the country — she was the best of America. Dolly, we’ll miss your great heart.”
Former Vice President Kamala Harris wrote in a tribute on X, “Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she became a global superstar. Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library.”
“All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one. Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly,” she concluded.
Parton’s rep said she died peacefully in Nashville. TMZ also reported that she had been admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Friday morning with kidney and autoimmune issues.
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