Celebrities Like Taylor Swift and Chappell Roan Get Political. Are Voters Listening?

(FONTANA, Calif.) —   On Sept. 10, soon after the televised debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, Taylor Swift became the latest and biggest celebrity to endorse a candidate in the U.S. presidential election. In doing so, she joined Beyonce, Billie Eilish and Dennis Quaid to endorse Harris or Trump in the tightly contested race. 

Soon after, others followed including Bruce Springsteen, Bad Bunny and Eminem. Celebrity endorsements grab headlines, but do they move voters? According to a Harvard study, “While some polling shows that people claim they aren’t influenced by celebrity voices when it comes to politics, more rigorous evidence indicates that these voices are incredibly powerful… nonprofits report higher rates of online voter registration or poll worker sign-ups when a celebrity promotes these calls to action”

Chappell Roan, the rising pop princess, shared her thoughts on the matter in an interview with Rolling Stone that was published Sept. 10. She emphasized the role that artists such as herself play in promoting conversations surrounding politics. She is amongst one of a number of celebrities such as Taylor Swift who have made statements which are significant to the election. 

Roan discussed how her platform extends beyond music, enabling her to address social and political issues important to her young, queer fanbase. In her interview, she noted the responsibility of her influence. “Right now, it’s more important than ever to use your vote, and I will do whatever it takes to protect people’s civil rights, especially the LGBQT+ community.” Her approach reflects a growing trend of artists empowering their audiences to engage civically.

The intersection of celebrity and politics is not without controversy. Some argue that these figures lack the expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to political discourse. However, with millions of followers on social media, celebrities hold a unique ability to influence the masses. The Click talked to some would-be voters to see if endorsements or shoutouts from celebrities inspire them to vote for particular candidates. 

“I believe that celebrity endorsements have not influenced my political decision-making,” said Lizbeth Trujillo, a 26-year-old resident of the San Fernando Valley, though she acknowledged that others may be more susceptible to celebrity influence.

Swift was the cause for over 400,000 individuals turning to a voter registration resource, Vote.gov following her Instagram post on Sept. 10.

Reese Herrera, 24, of Long Beach, said Swift’s endorsement “reinforces my decision making,” adding, “I look up to these artists like Taylor Swift and Chappell Roan… they are voicing their opinions and that shows that I am supporting people who are like-minded.” 

As the election season continued, celebrities attempted to expand their political influence. Following the release of her song ‘The Lighthouse,’ written after the overturn of Roe V. Wade, the artist Stevie Nicks said, “This may be the most important thing I ever do. To stand up for the women of the United States and their daughters and granddaughters — and the men that love them.’ This is an anthem.”