Grammy Award-winning rapper Common is scheduled to appear at the White House today [May 11] to participate in an event to celebrate American Poetry. However, conservatives aren’t too happy about the first lady’s decision to extend the invitation to the rapper. 

Fox News called Common “vile” and labeled a news item about his visit to the White House, “First lady to host rapper who talks of killing cops, burning Bush,” reports the New York Daily News. The headline references a song he wrote called “Letter to the Law,” which alludes to former President Bush. 

The Daily Caller, a Conservative-run website, posted a sampling of the song’s lyrics: “With that happening, why they messing with Saddam? Burn a Bush cos’ for peace he no push no button. Killing over oil and grease, no weapons of destruction.”

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin tweeted a link to the Daily Caller article alongside the comment, “Oh lovely, White House.” 

Common, who appeared in a Pro-Obama campaign video called “Yes We Can,” appears to be unfazed by the criticism, tweeting, “So apparently Sarah Palin and Fox News doesn’t like me.” 

Despite the negativity, the Chicago-native is still expected to perform alongside other invited White House guests Billy Collins, Rita Dove, Kenneth Goldsmith, Alison Knowles, Aimee Mann and Jill Scott. 

(Photo: Fernando Leon/PictureGroup)