Women of the Century: Dolly Parton loves people, and they love her back
Dolly Parton is one of the most prolific singer-songwriters of our age, but she’s as well-known for her philanthropy as she is for her creativity.
USA TODAY
In modern political discourse, it’s unusual for Republicans and Democrats to wholeheartedly back a bipartisan cause. And it’s particularly out of the ordinary for President Donald Trump and Republican House leader Mike Johnson to align philosophically on a single day with former Vice President Kamala Harris, Rep. Nancy Pelosi – the former House Speaker – and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
But that’s the rare alchemy the news of Dolly Parton’s death has wrought: It has brought high-profile Republican and Democratic leaders from across the country together to mourn the loss of an American legend.
Dolly was the most popular global figure among American adults in a March 2026 survey by the University of Massachusetts Lowell and YouGov. Seventy percent of respondents had a favorable opinion of Parton in the poll, and former President Barack Obama got a 50% favorable rating, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders 39%, former President George W. Bush 37% and Trump 36%. The main takeaway of the survey: Parton topped the favorability rankings in a survey of well-known figures, dominated by politicians and business leaders.
A look at Democrats, Republicans and major figures sharing remembrances of Parton
The list of political figures expressing condolences and marking Parton’s death as the loss of an American icon is growing. Here’s what a handful of leaders had to say:
- President Donald Trump, Republican: “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP”
- Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Democrat: “Dolly Parton was a singular American icon whose extraordinary voice, joyful spirit and generous heart brought light to millions and made America kinder and more hopeful. Dolly was a committed philanthropist and a trailblazer who empowered women to find their own voices and be their authentic selves. May her legacy of beauty and artistry always be an inspiration.”
- Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Democrat: “Dolly Parton did all the good she could, for all the people she could, for as long as ever she could. From her legendary songwriting to the Imagination Library – which sent 1 million books a month to children across the country – she was the best of America. Dolly, we’ll miss your great heart.”
- Rep. Mike Johnson, Republican: “America has lost a true national treasure. Dolly Parton’s unmistakable voice, joyful spirit, and remarkable generosity touched generations of Americans and many others around the world. From the mountains of Tennessee to stages across the globe, she never forgot where she came from, and she used her extraordinary success to lift up countless others. Our prayers are with her family and all who loved her.”
- Sen. Chuck Schumer, Democrat: “Dolly Parton was loved in every corner of our nation. All of America is mourning this monumental loss. We love you, Dolly.”
- Former Democratic President Bill Clinton: “Dolly Parton was one of a kind – a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility, and heart. She rose high from her East Tennessee roots and never forgot where she came from. And she always believed in giving back, especially in her efforts to promote literacy. Hillary and I were big fans and first saw her in 1974, and will always be grateful for the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her.”
- Former Vice President Kamala Harris, Democrat: “Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she became a global superstar. Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and – my favorite – more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library. All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one. Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly.”
- Martin Luther King III (son of Martin Luther King Jr.): “Dolly Parton embodied the beloved community. She was a creative visionary, steadfast philanthropist, and proud ally to the LGBTQ community who spent her life making people feel welcome and loved. Through her Imagination Library alone, she put books in the hands of millions of children and gave generations of families the gift of reading. Her compassion reached children, disaster victims, vaccine recipients, and countless others around the world. Rest in peace, Dolly. Thank you for wrapping us all in your coat of many colors.”
- Second Lady Usha Vance, wife of Republican Vice President JD Vance: “As four-time subscribers to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and lifelong fans of her music, our family knows that Dolly Parton loved a good story. I hope that you’ll pick up a book and celebrate the magic of storytelling in her honor today.”
- Amazon founder Jeff Bezos: “Dolly spent her whole life showing us what it means to lead with love. Lauren and I are so grateful to have known her. She lifted everyone with her music, her generosity, and her joy. Sending our sincere condolences to her family and everyone she touched.”
- Sen. Susan Collins, Republican: “Saddened to learn of the passing of American icon Dolly Parton. Through the Dollywood Foundation and her global Imagination Library, Dolly gave free books to children around the world, sparking a lifelong love of reading. Her legacy will live on in the classrooms and communities she uplifted and the beautiful music she created.”
- Sen. Tom Cotton, Republican: “Dolly Parton’s legacy was more than just music. She left a profound impact on Arkansas children through her Imagination Library. May she rest in peace.”
- Ivanka Trump, one of President Trump’s daughters: “A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. ‘I don’t criticize and condemn; I love and accept.’ That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively simple – uncomplicated on its face but profound and deeply moving beneath the surface. Goodbye to a bright light. A peerless singer, incredible songwriter, gifted comic actress, tireless philanthropist, accomplished businesswoman and true original. We never met but I adored and admired Dolly greatly.”