Rapper Kanye West has revealed why he wore the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) hat and supported former US President Donald Trump. He shared his perspective in a new documentary titled In Whose Name?, directed by Nico Ballesteros. The film includes more than 3,000 hours of footage shot over six years, offering an in-depth look at West’s thoughts and struggles.

West Explains the MAGA Hat

In the documentary, West said his decision to wear the MAGA hat was not about agreeing with all of Trump’s beliefs or policies.

“When I wear the hat, it ain’t about every one of this man’s principles," West said. “It ain’t about. It’s not about the detention centres, which we know were here through a bunch of presidents. It ain’t about [does] a 72-year-old white man give a f— about Black people?"

West explained that the hat symbolized his fight against mind control and censorship. He referenced George Orwell’s novel 1984 to highlight his point. He even questioned whether saying certain words, like “Hitler,” could get him canceled or lead to the loss of major business deals, such as his Adidas partnership.

Backlash and Career Impact

Over the years, West has faced heavy criticism for controversial statements, especially antisemitic remarks. These comments led to a major fallout in the music and fashion industries.

In early 2025, West’s talent agency dropped him after another antisemitic rant. This was not the first time he faced such backlash, but it added to the growing list of lost partnerships and public condemnation.

Pressure During SNL Appearance

West also opened up about the intense pressure he faced before his 2018 appearance on Saturday Night Live. He described it as a painful experience where he felt trapped by expectations and his own community’s criticism.

“I’m literally inside of current slavery and being accosted by my own people to not free my mind," said West, who is now 48. His words reflected the emotional strain he endured while trying to express independent thoughts.

His Relationship with Trump

The rapper spoke about his admiration for Trump, recalling their meeting at the White House in October 2018. During that meeting, they discussed tax cuts, prison reforms, mental health, and racism.

He also mentioned a 2020 WSJ. Magazine cover story where he defended wearing the MAGA hat.

“I’m a Black guy with a red [MAGA] hat, can you imagine?" West said. “It reminded me of how I felt as a Black guy before I was famous, when I would walk in a restaurant and people would look at you like you were going to steal something. ‘This is your place, Ye, don’t talk about apparel. This is your place, Ye, you’re Black, so you’re a Democrat,’" he added.

From Supporter to Presidential Candidate

Kanye West first publicly supported Donald Trump in November 2016, though he did not vote in that election.

In 2018, he famously called Trump “my brother” and met him at the White House, further strengthening his public support. By July 2020, West launched his own presidential campaign. However, he later decided to end his run for office.

Through this new documentary, West offers a rare glimpse into his motivations, challenges, and unfiltered thoughts about politics, freedom of speech, and his relationship with Trump.