PETA is criticizing Staind‘s Aaron Lewis after the rocker posted a photo of 32 dead coyotes spelling out “Trump 24” on social media.
“How vile and pathetic that a washed-up musician, desperate for relevance, terrorized and killed animals to get a brief taste of the attention he obviously craves,” Lisa Lange, PETA’s senior vice president, says in a statement to Billboard. “Just like the dogs who share our homes, coyotes feel pain and fear and love their families, and because they’re one of the few species found in nearly every U.S. state, they’re beloved by many as America’s ‘song dog.’ PETA encourages Aaron Lewis to seek attention through some act of kindness, rather than slaughtering individuals who are simply trying to eke out an existence in an increasingly paved-over world.”
Lewis, who is also a country musician, began sharing the photo Wednesday (Oct. 18) to his accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Truth Social.
“Another incredible 3 night hunt,” his caption on the twice-impeached former president Donald Trump’s social media platform read in part, also indicating that the hunt took place in Texas. “Who knew it would take exactly 32 dead coyotes to write such a poignant message to this amazing country we are all watching crumble before our eyes.”
The non-profit animal rights organization isn’t the only one upset by Lewis’ photo.
“I’m pro Trump, pro guns, pro hunting and like Arron Lewis but have some damn respect for the animals!” commented one follower on Facebook. “Who raised you??”
“I’m a hunter and own livestock and farm and I don’t destroy huge populations of apex predators,” wrote another. “I make sure I secure my domestic animals because I’m educated and know this isn’t conservationism.”
More fans on Instagram slammed the Staind frontman over his photo of the dead coyotes; he has since hidden comments and removed the ability to respond to the post.
Billboard has reached out to Staind’s rep for comment on Lewis’ photo.
