The global pop star may be one of the most influential people on the planet, but celebrity endorsements often don’t move the needle when it comes to influencing elections. That said, Taylor Swift has a massive following among young people, a demographic that aligns with Harris’ supporters. Her Harris endorsement could boost the Democratic vice president’s hopes of attracting those voters. But will that matter?
The question is especially pertinent given that this election will likely be extremely close. In the last presidential election, the margin between Democratic former President Joe Biden and Republican Donald Trump was just over 10 points — and the presidential race is expected to be even closer this year.
Harris, a first-term senator from California, is appealing to progressives by emphasizing her experience in the federal government and her strong track record on issues such as abortion, gun control, and climate change. The 57-year-old has represented the US globally, forged vital alliances to fight tyranny abroad, and championed women’s rights at home. Her stances resonate with young women, who vote at a rate three to four percentage points higher than men.
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As a result, her candidacy has attracted ardent support from some of the most influential names in politics, including Democratic strategists and members of Congress. Biden’s campaign was particularly eager to secure Harris’ endorsement. But despite her fervent defenders, some political experts believe that Harris is not as well-positioned to win the White House this fall as she would have liked, even with Swift’s support.
Swift, a registered Democrat, has been relatively quiet on the politics front until now. In a tweet, she announced her support for Harris and encouraged fans to go to the polls. She did not directly tell Swifties to vote for the Democratic nominee, and that choice was likely deliberate. It’s a move that protects her from inevitable attacks from Republicans who will try to portray her as a liberal elite and also reinforces the notion that her support for Harris is based on substance and not just on “vibes.”
Swift has weighed in on politics with limited frequency in the past but has a proven record of boosting civic participation among her followers. Her online statements and occasional endorsements have prompted thousands of fans to register to vote in previous elections.
If she follows her pattern in 2024, her Harris endorsement will likely inspire many Swifties to turn out for the November balloting — but it will be policy that ultimately determines the winner of the White House. That factor will be impossible to measure until after Election Day on Nov. 5. With early voting starting next week, the clock is ticking. Until then, Swift can keep inspiring her young fans to make their voices heard. Voting by mail or in person is available in most states. For more information, visit the National Voter Registration Day website.