Written by Mia Aponte. Graphic by Abby Chadwick.
The debate over whether celebrities should get involved in politics is always a hot topic, especially during election years. With the 2024 election approaching, celebrities are once again taking to social media, public events and interviews to share their political opinions. But the question remains: does their involvement genuinely impact the political landscape, or does it simply add to the noise?
The Case for Celebrities Getting Political
Celebrities often have massive platforms and can reach audiences that politicians might struggle to engage. In this sense, they have the power to bring attention to important issues and encourage voter participation. Taylor Swift, for example, has been vocal about her political views in recent years, urging her followers to vote and to be informed on key issues. Swift’s influence is undeniable; in 2018, her Instagram post endorsing Democratic candidates led to a noticeable spike in voter registrations. In 2020, she continued to advocate for social and political change, reinforcing her commitment to using her influence for good. Not to mention, just recently showing her support for Kamala Harris for this year’s election.
Similarly, when Oprah Winfrey publicly supported Barack Obama in 2008, it was estimated that her endorsement brought in around one million votes. For some, this level of influence is invaluable, as it can sway public opinion and even affect the outcome of an election.
The Risks of Celebrity Involvement
On the other hand, some argue that celebrities may not always be well-versed in the issues they speak about, potentially spreading misinformation or oversimplifying complex topics. Critics argue that these public figures lack the expertise needed to engage in nuanced political discussions, which can lead to misunderstandings among their followers.
The recent case of pop artist Chappell Roan exemplifies this risk. Roan stirred debate with her comments about the 2024 presidential election, where she expressed frustration with the political landscape and refrained from endorsing any candidate. The backlash was swift, as some fans perceived her stance as political indifference. Roan clarified her position on TikTok, emphasizing her commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and underscoring the importance of critical thinking when making voting decisions. Despite this, the incident shows how easily celebrity statements can be misinterpreted and spark heated reactions, particularly in an election year.
Kanye West’s 2020 presidential run is a case in point. His surprise candidacy was widely seen as a stunt, yet it gained substantial media coverage and may have confused or distracted voters. Another example is the backlash faced by Ellen DeGeneres, who was criticized for her friendship with former President George W. Bush. Her defense of the relationship, emphasizing civility and kindness, was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. This incident illustrates how celebrity opinions can backfire, leading to alienation from their own audiences.
Does Celebrity Influence Really Make a Difference?
Ultimately, the impact of celebrity political involvement depends on how they approach it. When celebrities make informed, thoughtful contributions, they can positively influence public discourse. However, celebrities also run the risk of oversimplifying issues or shifting focus away from more critical debates. Moreover, as polarization grows, celebrity endorsements can sometimes reinforce divisions rather than promote unity. While some people may be inspired by their favorite stars, others may dismiss their opinions as out of touch.
In conclusion, celebrity involvement in politics can be both beneficial and risky. The key is for these figures to approach political issues responsibly, with a commitment to being well-informed and respectful of differing viewpoints. As the 2024 election looms, their influence will undoubtedly continue to play a role, but whether it will help or hinder the democratic process remains to be seen.
As Contributing Editor, Mia Aponte collaborates closely with staff and contributors to craft engaging narratives across various subjects. She is eager to infuse fresh perspectives and dynamic storytelling into her work and to help the contributors with their artistic pursuits. At SCAD, Mia majors in Fashion Marketing and Management and minors in Social Strategy and Management. She regularly offers opinionated pieces on numerous topics as well as pop culture insights. When she’s not writing, Mia is most likely thrifting, listening to music, or reading.
