As the 2024 election season gains momentum, stars like Taylor Swift and Hulk Hogan are stepping into the political ring, backing Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. When Oprah Winfrey took the stage in 2008 and publicly endorsed then-Senator Barack Obama, it wasn’t just another celebrity endorsement; it was a pivotal moment in modern political campaigning. Researchers later estimated that her support potentially earned Obama an additional 1 million votes. Fast forward to today, celebrities are still playing a powerful force in American politics, but does their influence extend beyond flashy headlines?
As the 2024 election season heats up, celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Bill Nye, Billie Eilish, and Taylor Swift have fully backed Kamala Harris, while Donald Trump has secured figures, such as Hulk Hogan, Amber Rose, and Brittany Mahomes.
A recent poll revealed that 11% of American adults stated that they might change their preferred candidate based on a celebrity endorsement. This figure jumps to 19% among younger voters, indicating that while celebrities may not be a decisive factor for everyone, they do hold a significant influence for a significant portion of voters, especially those more engaged with pop culture.
Celebrity endorsements are nothing new in American politics. They have historically served to amplify a candidate’s message but also sometimes distract from other issues. Taylor Swift’s political advocacy, for instance, has brought considerable attention to issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and voter registration among her massive fan base. Her endorsement of Joe Biden in the 2020 election reportedly led to a spike in voter registration among young people.
Swift’s influence could similarly play out for Harris. As one of the most followed and influential celebrities today, her support could energize young voters and progressive millennials who might otherwise remain disengaged. “Taylor Swift has a unique ability to connect with younger voters who are often disillusioned by traditional political campaigns,” says political strategist Kate Thomas. “Her authenticity and willingness to speak out on issues she cares about resonate in a way that few other public figures can match.”
The impact of celebrity endorsements has varied over time. Oprah’s support for Obama in 2008 is often viewed as a chief example for how celebrity power can effectively organize voters. However, not all endorsements have had such an intense impact. In 2016, a number of A-list celebrities, including Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Katy Perry endorsed Hillary Clinton, but their efforts did little to secure key swing states.
Celebrity endorsements can draw the attention of voters who might otherwise be indifferent or secure the votes of those who are unsure of their political stance. However, they can also create a disconnect if voters feel their genuine concerns are being overshadowed by celebrity motives. As the 2024 campaign trail continues, we will see whether the backing from stars will help or harm Harris and Trump, or whether voters will make their decisions based on more traditional factors like policy and character.
