US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he does not particularly enjoy country music during an appearance on The Katie Miller Podcast, describing many songs in the genre as sad and formulaic. His comments drew attention because he contrasted this view with enthusiasm for electronic dance music and remixes of older songs.

Rubio said he was not “anti country music” but suggested its songs often centre on familiar themes such as lost partners and dogs. He specifically praised a dance remix of Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire”, though the article says it is unclear which version he meant.