The 2024 Presidential election is fast approaching, and celebrities continue to endorse their wanted candidates in the hope of influencing the polls.
The celebrities using their voices to endorse candidates in the upcoming election range from President Obama, Taylor Swift and George Clooney. These endorsements impact public opinion, particularly among young and undecided voters.
Celebrity endorsements are not new, they have the potential to influence voter engagement, and they often provoke controversy during the election process.
In previous elections, dating back to the early 20th century, celebrities endorsed politicians in their campaigns. A significant example is Ronald Reagan, a Hollywood actor who utilized his celebrity fame to build his political platform. Reagan eventually became California’s Governor in 1966 and the United States President in 980. His celebrity status showcased the power of fame in politics.
Similarly, Oprah Winfrey endorsed Barack Obama in the 2008 election. Winfrey’s support encouraged African American and women voters in their election decisions. Analysts estimate an additional one million votes were secured, demonstrating the impact of celebrity power on electoral outcomes.
Social media has redefined celebrity in political endorsements, allowing significant outreach to millions of users. Platforms such as Twitter/X, Instagram and TikTok allow celebrities to share their views and promote candidates.
In the 2020 election, public figures like Taylor Swift and LeBron James encouraged voter registration to their millions of followers. These viral endorsements enhance voter interaction and shift traditional influence from print media to social media. This allows for individual displays of support and introduces celebrity influence powerful enough to change elections.
In the lead-up to the 2024 election, actor George Clooney made headlines by urging President Joe Biden to step aside. After Biden declined to leave the race, Clooney shifted his support to Vice President Kamala Harris, publicly endorsing her as the future of the Democratic Party. This move highlights the powerful role celebrities play in influencing politics.
When high-profile figures like Clooney speak out, they generate widespread media coverage, drawing attention to political races and encouraging their fans to get involved. Celebrity endorsements often inspire voters, particularly younger demographics, to register and engage in the political process.
Many celebrities are weighing in with their thoughts and endorsements for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Taylor Swift has formally endorsed Kamala Harris. She stated in her Instagram post, “I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them.”
Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama gave their support for Harris at the Democratic National Convention. Barack Obama stated in his speech, “We will elect Kamala Harris as the next President of the United States, and Tim Walz as the next Vice President of the United States.”
Even Republican Liz Cheney supported Harris during a rally in Ripon. She stated, “…not only am I not voting for Donald Trump, but I will be voting for Kamala Harris.”
Donald Trump has several celebrities endorsing his candidacy as well. Hulk Hogan, a long-time pro wrestler, spoke at the Republican National Convention in July 2024. Hogan told the crowd, “This November, guys, we can save the American dream for everyone, and Donald Trump is the president who will get the job done.”
TikTok star Bryce Hall is also sharing his support for Trump with his followers. Bryce told fans in a Las Vegas rally, “We need Trump back really bad.” Similarly, Kid Rock has advocated his support for Donald Trump by collaborating with Make America Great Again and selling Kid Rock x MAGA Merchandise.
Some celebrities support candidates, without formally endorsing them. For instance, Beyonce has not officially endorsed Kamala Harris but has helped her campaign by allowing access to her music catalog. Similarly, artists like Chance the Rapper have not endorsed any candidates but have urged voters to research and register to vote. Celebrity supporters and endorsements shape public opinion and voter’s behavior.
Despite the positive impact celebrity endorsements can bring to the political table, it can also be highly controversial. Some voters view them as opportunistic or inauthentic. Endorsements can polarize audiences particularly if the celebrity has a diverse fan base with differing political views. In some cases, celebrity involvement risks isolating their fans because of their political beliefs. These dynamics make celebrity endorsements both powerful and controversial, by sparking debates about the crossroads of fame and politics.
Overall, celebrity endorsements continue to play a significant role in shaping voter behavior. As the 2024 election approaches, figures like Taylor Swift, George Clooney and Hulk Hogan have used their platforms to back candidates and influence public opinion. These endorsements not only spark controversy but also have the potential to sway election results.
As social media expands endorsements and impact of celebrity influence remain powerful, shaping modern political landscapes and energizing voter engagement.