In today’s world of politics, celebrities hold immense power in captivating an audience through endorsing politicians. By outwardly supporting a candidate, they make a statement that surely not everyone can agree in today’s divided political climate. Directly telling fans whom to vote for discourages voters from developing their own political opinions and educating themselves. Ahead of the 2024 presidential election, celebrities should keep their politics to themselves, encouraging independent thought and critical thinking in a nation divided by partisanship.
Recently, in a Fox & Friends interview, famous pro-wrestler and actor Dwayne Johnson was asked if he would endorse current President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the 2024 presidential race. Johnson endorsed Biden and Harris in the 2020 presidential election. In response, Johnson acknowledged the country’s starkly current divided state, saying he would keep his politics to himself this time. Considering his significant influence, Johnson’s decision was shocking yet mature in acknowledging the current political climate of America. With over 390 million followers on Instagram, Johnson’s audience consistently observes him, leaving him no choice but to be cautious of what he does and says as a celebrity. More celebrities should take note of Johnson’s decision to stay out of politics because he is, in fact, a celebrity and not a politician. Just because a celebrity has a large platform, does not mean they are qualified to speak out on pressing issues, nor are they obligated to. Johnson says he only wishes for the country to come together, having complete trust that the American people will make the correct decision for president.
Celebrities funding a political candidate may sound like a brilliant move to arouse votes. However, the consequences may suggest more harm than good. If a celebrity spreads misinformation while endorsing a candidate, the public can look to place blame on the celebrity. They could be accused of inciting political chaos or even become looped in conspiracies, such as famous singer Taylor Swift. Swift first endorsed Biden’s campaign in 2020, and the White House reportedly wishes she would do so again. A recent poll shows that just under one in five Americans believe Swift is part of a plan to assist Biden in winning the 2024 election. Most believers support Republican candidate former President Donald Trump, who claims Swift benefited enormously from the Music Modernization Act and would be disloyal if she again endorsed Biden.
If Swift decides to endorse Biden, she should be cautious about becoming further entangled in political conspiracies or getting stuck in the crossfire of political debates. As a musician first and endorser second, Swift should focus on bringing people together through her music, rather than forcing her opinions onto fans who may disagree politically. Celebrities’ political opinions reflect their personal views, like every American voter. No two Americans’ political views are the same when it comes to topics like healthcare, abortion or the economy. Now, more than ever, we live in a country divided by strong labels such as Republican and Democrat. Being told to vote for a candidate simply because of a celebrity’s praise only further contributes to the polarization of left and right-wing politics.
When a worshiped celebrity speaks, their fans listen. In September 2023, Swift made an Instagram post to her then 272 million followers, encouraging them to register to vote. Soon enough, Vote.org recorded 35,000 registrations thanks to Swift’s persuasive power in one Instagram message. Celebrities such as Swift can no doubt promote issues, like voter registration, that notably benefit American civic duty. But when they dive deeper into politics, directly backing presidential candidates they know are both hated and supported by the country, they willingly enter a realm of controversy. Politics is uncharted territory for many celebrities who are not experts in pressing issues. Rather than actively be politicians, celebrities should just encourage Americans to go out and vote, keeping silent about who they are supporting.
Celebrities should advocate for education and research in formulating one’s political opinions. Though Swift and Johnson are just as well-known as Biden or Trump, it does not mean they are experts in American politics. To unite the American people, celebrities should use their influence to seek attention and speak positively regarding our right to vote. The partisan state of our country will never improve should Americans look to celebrities to tell them who to vote for.
Abigail Smith, FCRH ’27, is an English major from Verona, N.J.
