Ethel Cain defends #KillMoreCEOs post amid conservative backlash

Ethel Cain, aka Hayden Anhedönia, responds to backlash over her #KillMoreCEOs post after UnitedHealth CEO's murder.

Ethel Cain, aka Hayden Anhedönia, responds to backlash over her controversial #KillMoreCEOs post following UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson's murder.

Conservative outlets, including Fox News, criticized the post, labeling Cain's stance as radical. In a detailed Tumblr post, the artist addressed the criticism, calling for a broader perspective on systemic issues like climate change and healthcare reform.

Cain argued that these problems transcend political affiliations, emphasizing that they are not "red vs. blue issues." She highlighted moments in history when groups united against systemic oppression, saying, “Remember when country music...used to be staunchly anti-government and about sticking it to the man?” She also pointed to the efforts of Appalachian coal miners who fought for unionization despite being dismissed today as "ignorant."

Ethel Cain stands strong on her stance regarding the healthcare system and CEOs:

“since when has ‘upholding traditional values’ gone hand in hand with... defending lawmakers and oil tycoons. my family and i complain about the same issues at the dinner table. the men in charge… pic.twitter.com/D0jXKHca3i

— Pop Base (@PopBase) January 20, 2025

Cain stressed the irony of associating traditional values with defending corporate leaders and lawmakers, asserting that shared grievances across political lines could lead to powerful collective action. She wrote, “The men in charge better hope they can keep their digital smokescreens running...because the moment the rednecks and the hippies lay down their swords...all hell is gonna break loose.”

Her response reframes the conversation, emphasizing unity against systemic inequality and environmental destruction. By highlighting common struggles, Cain challenges divisive narratives and calls for a collective approach to addressing these critical issues.

As debate around her post grows, Cain's message continues to spark conversation about the intersection of politics, media, and systemic reform.