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.
Feature Image: Press “It’s important to find your people. Don’t feel like you have to find this incredible producer or person who’s going to give you loads of money and change your life” says Lauerence Tratalos, one-half of the Northern duo responsible for Misper; a feature debut for director Harry Sheriff and script writer Tratalos….
Featured image and gallery: Lucy Elson-Whittaker Fuel Café Bar in Withington hosts the fifth stop of six-piece band Ignoring Izzy’s ‘Motorway Musk’ tour, following the release of their debut single. The room buzzes with the promise of chaos, and possibly a few flying vegetables. Opening the night is Manchester-based Leucotome, a witch-folk trio blending soft,…
Featured image and gallery: Sub Khan Opening the night, Gabrielle eases the Co-op Live crowd into the spectacular night ahead. There’s no need for spectacle, her presence alone is enough with her deep vocals echoing around the arena. A performance rooted in control and feeling, each song reveals a different shade of her understated command. Operating…
Featured image and gallery: Sam Holmes Formed in Belfast in 2019, Chalk have already made a name for themselves. From support slots for Fontaines D.C., IDLES and Sprints, to taking to the stage at SXSW earlier this year, the band’s growth has been rapid and shows no signs of stopping. Touring their debut album Crystalpunk,…
Leave a reply