By Ben Thompson
After a long period of remaining politically neutral, Taylor Swift has come out and endorsed a political candidate. With the mid-term elections (in which Americans will vote for their representatives in Congress, the Senate and House of Representatives) fast approaching, Swift took to Instagram to implore her fans to register to vote.
In the Instagram post, the 28-year-old pop-star endorsed Congressman Jim Cooper for re-election and Phil Bredesen for election to the Senate. Both candidates are vying to represent Tennessee, Swift’s home-state. In endorsing the two Democrats, Swift put an end to speculation that she was a Republican. She even went so far as to criticise the Republican candidate running against Bredsesen, Marsha Blackburn, stating that her voting record on gender and LGBT equality “appalls and terrifies” her.
It’s no surprise that the singer wading into political waters left people divided. Some love the fact that celebrities voice their opinions, believing that it’s their duty as somebody with a platform to speak out against injustices. Others aren’t such big fans of celebrity political statements – least of all President Donald Trump, who remarked “I like her music 25% less now.”
In the wake of her endorsement, 65,000 fans registered to vote. While some may feel that celebrities who wade into political territory can run the risk of making themselves seem out of touch or self-important, as if their opinion is one you have to listen to, Swift’s statement has undeniably made a powerful impact. She spoke her piece and eloquently laid down her reasons for voting Democrat and most importantly without telling her fans who they should vote for. For a star with lots of young fans who adore and seek to emulate her, it is commendable that she encouraged people to make their own decisions.
Who you vote for shouldn’t be dictated to you by your favourite musician. Do your research, evaluate the candidates, and always turn out to vote.
Featured image: Isabelle Dargue A powerful new film documenting Manchester’s Lights Up movement will premiere at The Savoy Cinema on 9 March as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. Lights Up is a free, community-led event organised by Bee Pedal Ready and Station South in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University, We Are Cycling UK, MCRActive,…
Featured image: David Lindsay Manchester illustrator Stanley Chow will return to the decks for a special guest vinyl DJ set at The Garden Bar in Chorlton later this month. Chow, known for his distinctive geometric minimalist portraits of figures from Manchester and wider pop culture, is returning to his roots with an exclusive free DJ…
Following the passing of iconic Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mountfield, there have been growing calls for him to be immortalised in a way that reflects both his cultural impact and the deep affection shared between the musician and his home city. GRIT Studios has answered the calls from fans, announcing plans…
Featured image: Evie Peattie Often overshadowed in popular narratives by the heritage houses of Paris or Milan, London’s fashion ecosystem has long traded on creative freedom. As London Fashion Week prepares for its 42nd year, running from the 19 to 23 February, the British capital is poised to reaffirm its reputation not simply as a…
Leave a reply