In his first public comment regarding the Dixie Chicks controversy, President George W. Bush emphasized the importance of freedom of speech. During a March 10 concert in London, Dixie Chicks lead vocalist Natalie Maines said they were ashamed the president was from their home state of Texas. Maines later apologized for the comment. In an interview with NBC’s Tom Brokaw, Bush stated, “I mean, the Dixie Chicks are free to speak their mind. They can say what they want to say. … They shouldn't have their feelings hurt just because some people don't want to buy their records when they speak out. You know, freedom is a two-way street. But I … don't really care what the Dixie Chicks said. I want to do what I think is right for the American people, and if some singers or Hollywood stars feel like speaking out, that's fine. That's the great thing about America. It stands in stark contrast to Iraq, by the way.” 04/25/03