This past Monday (October 14), at a Donald Trump town hall in Oaks, Pennsylvania, that NPR characterized as going “from a Q-and-A session to a bizarre musical event in which Trump stood in front of his audience for an extended period while songs played on the sound system,” numerous songs were played. Among the songs was singer songwriter Rufus Wainwright’s version of Leonard Cohen’s seminal “Hallelujah.” Wainwright, who is supporting Kamala Harris, was horrified upon learning of this and today issues this statement:

“The song ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen has become an anthem dedicated to peace, love and acceptance of the truth. I’ve been supremely honored over the years to be connected with this ode to tolerance. Witnessing Trump and his supporters commune with this music last night was the height of blasphemy. Of course, I in no way condone this and was mortified, but the good in me hopes that perhaps in inhabiting and really listening to the lyrics of Cohen’s masterpiece, Donald Trump just might experience a hint of remorse over what he’s caused. I’m not holding my breath.”

Rufus Wainwright

The publishing company for the Leonard Cohen estate has sent the Trump campaign a cease and desist letter.