Global music sensation Taylor Swift’s public endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris has stirred controversy ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Swift urged her massive fan base to cast their votes for Harris and her running partner, Tim Walz. However, this political move has elicited diverse reactions among the public, as revealed by recent polling data.
In a YouGov poll, Swift’s endorsement appears to have repelled more voters than it attracted. Of the respondents, 20% indicated they were “somewhat” or “much less likely” to back Harris, exceeding the 8% that were “somewhat” or “much more likely” to vote Democrat due to Swift’s support. However, most respondents, 66%, stated that Swift’s endorsement did not affect their voting intentions.
In her Instagram endorsement post that received over 10 million likes, Swift portrayed Harris as a “steady-handed” and “gifted leader.” She also underscored her belief in Harris’s capacity to advocate for the causes and rights that Swift herself endorses.
The Trump campaign responded promptly to Swift’s endorsement. Campaign spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, criticized Swift’s support for Harris, stating, “This is further evidence that the Democrat Party, unfortunately, is the party of the wealthy elite.”
Swift’s public support for Harris followed the first presidential debate between Harris and former President Donald Trump, a debate many viewed Harris as winning. Swift also addressed her worries about misinformation, notably false reports asserting she had endorsed Trump.
Despite the mixed reactions, Swift’s endorsement has triggered a significant increase in voter registration. In just 24 hours following her post, over 400,000 individuals accessed the voter registration link she shared, reflecting the considerable influence of Swift’s words, particularly among the younger demographic, a group both campaigns are striving to win.
Swift’s influence extends beyond politics. Her close friendship with Brittany Mahomes, spouse of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, has also attracted notice. The two were recently seen at the U.S. Open. Despite Mahomes liking some of Trump’s Instagram posts, the women’s differing political stances have not strained their friendship.
Notwithstanding the endorsement’s mixed reception, Harris has voiced appreciation for Swift’s support. In a radio interview, she said, “I am very honored to have their support,” referring to Swift and other celebrities who have endorsed her campaign.
