Trump Suggests His Choreography Helped the ‘Gay National Anthem’ Chart at No. 1

Former President Donald Trump recently took to the podium at The Villages retirement community in Florida, where he recounted his connection with the Village People’s disco classic “Y.M.C.A.” According to Trump, he believes his energetic dance moves during his 2024 presidential campaign played a significant role in the song’s resurgence on the charts. He described the track as the “gay national anthem,” a term he has used repeatedly in relation to the popular tune.

At the event on May 1, 2025, the former president shared his thoughts on the song’s success and the reaction it garners from his wife, Melania Trump. “She hates when I dance to what is sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem,” he confessed light-heartedly to the audience. Trump’s dance, characterised by a distinctive double fist pump and hip shake, has become something of a signature move at his rallies. He acknowledged Melania’s disapproval, explaining, “She’s a very elegant woman. She goes, ‘Darling, please don’t dance. It’s not presidential.’”

The conversation took place against the backdrop of the song’s impressive performance on the Billboard charts. “Y.M.C.A.” enjoyed a revival in late 2024, reaching number one on the Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales for five consecutive weeks. Billboard noted that this achievement marked a significant moment in the song’s history, which originally peaked at number two on the Hot 100 in 1979.

While addressing the audience, Trump claimed credit for the song’s recent popularity, suggesting that his campaign rallies played a crucial role in its chart-topping success. However, he exaggerated some details, incorrectly stating that the song had sustained a lengthy stint at number one. “We love that song,” he asserted, mentioning how the song’s upbeat nature resonates with his supporters, even if it elicits mixed feelings from Melania.

Despite the playful banter about his dancing, the connection between Trump and “Y.M.C.A.” is deeply rooted in his previous campaign strategies. The song became synonymous with his 2020 re-election efforts, frequently accompanying his appearances and rallies. As Trump boarded Air Force One for the last time in January 2021, the disco anthem notably played, reinforcing its association with his political persona.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, the former president integrated “Y.M.C.A.” into more than 110 rallies, culminating in lively performances as he wrapped up his speeches. Following his victory in the election, he arranged for the Village People to participate in his inauguration celebrations, further solidifying the connection between the song and his political brand.

Trump, in previous discussions, has referred to “Y.M.C.A.” as a song that transcends age demographics, proclaiming its effect on audiences at his Mar-a-Lago events as well. On a podcast appearance earlier this year, he remarked on its ability to energise crowds, stating, “You know what gets them rocking? ‘Y.M.C.A.’ They call it the gay national anthem. It gets people up, and it gets them moving.”

The playful exchange of light-hearted criticism from Melania and Trump’s exuberance reflects a unique aspect of his persona that he brings to his political rallies. This blend of nostalgia, exuberance, and cheeky self-awareness continues to resonate with segments of his audience. His love of “Y.M.C.A.” serves both as nostalgic entertainment and as a symbol of his enduring presence in American political and cultural discourse.

As the years progress and the political landscape continues to shift, it remains to be seen whether Trump’s nostalgic humour and signature dance moves will maintain their relevance with his supporters. For now, the presence of “Y.M.C.A.” at his events reinforces not only a connection to disco culture but also to a unique moment in his political journey, showcasing how a seemingly light-hearted song can become a powerful campaign tool.