Global music sensation Taylor Swift has thrown her support behind Kamala Harris in the race for the U.S. presidency, labeling the Democratic candidate a “steady-handed, gifted leader.” The 34-year-old singer, known for her massive influence, voiced her endorsement on Instagram shortly after a televised presidential debate.
“I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election,” Swift wrote in her Instagram post. She elaborated on her choice, saying, “I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos.”
A personal touch
Signing off her post, Swift humorously dubbed herself a “childless cat lady,” a jab at a derogatory remark made by Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance aimed at Democratic women. Until now, Swift had been notably silent on the political front, despite her fans rallying under the banner “Swifties for Kamala” and raising significant funds for Harris.
Addressing misinformation
Swift revealed that AI-generated images falsely endorsing Trump had prompted her to speak out. “It brought me to the conclusion that I need to be very transparent about my actual plans for this election as a voter,” she said. “The simplest way to combat misinformation is with the truth.” She urged her fans to conduct their own research, stating, “Your research is all yours to do, and the choice is yours to make.”
Praise for Tim Walz
Swift also expressed her support for Harris’s running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, commending his long-standing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, IVF, and women’s rights. “I’ve done my research, and I’ve made my choice,” she noted, while encouraging her followers to make informed decisions.
A powerful influence
With hundreds of millions of social media followers and a loyal fan base, Swift’s endorsement can sway public opinion significantly. Historically, she has stayed out of the political limelight but broke her silence in 2018 by endorsing a Democratic candidate in Tennessee. Since then, she has been a vocal supporter of Joe Biden and has championed LGBTQ+ rights and women’s reproductive rights.
Swift’s recent post quickly dominated news cycles and garnered over two million “likes” within half an hour. By speaking out, she not only clarified her political stance but also aimed to counteract misinformation.
“With love and hope, Taylor Swift,” she concluded, leaving a powerful message for her fans and the broader public.