Country musician John Rich defended his friend Carrie Underwood after she faced backlash for liking an anti-mask tweet. Rich tweeted that Underwood can like whatever tweet she wants, criticizing those who try to silence her. He also referenced the First Amendment but failed to acknowledge that it only applies to government curtailment of speech. Underwood faced criticism for liking a tweet from conservative commentator Matt Walsh, who made false statements about the risks of COVID-19 to children. Fans called out Underwood for her previous support of progressive issues and accused her of being anti-vaxx. Comedian Billy Eichner revealed that Underwood had blocked him on Twitter. Underwood's support for Walsh's anti-mask views comes as Nashville deals with COVID-19 cases in schools.