As the US election takes place today, many iconic figures have lined up behind the two main candidates: Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democrats and former President Donald Trump for the Republicans. While Democrats often benefited from massive celebrity support, popularity alone is no guarantee of success, as Hillary Clinton’s failure in 2016 demonstrated.
On the one hand, Hollywood (and Avengers) stars such as Scarlett Johansson, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo and Robert Downey Jr expressed their support for Kamala Harris via video. Beyoncé, who appeared at a Democratic rally, recalled her commitment as a mother, calling for a fairer world for future generations. Taylor Swift, for her part, announced her choice to her millions of followers by declaring: “I am voting for Harris because she defends the causes that are close to my heart.” Even Arnold Schwarzenegger, although a Republican, announced his support for the Democrats, affirming that America must turn the page on the Trump era, which he considers “un-American”.
Billie Eilish, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, Harrison Ford, Madonna, Eminem, Bruce Springsteen, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Samuel L. Jackson, Spike Lee and Cher are also among the stars who have lent their support to Ms. Harris.
On the other hand, Donald Trump can count on influential figures like Elon Musk, who made a substantial donation ($75 million) to his campaign, and Hulk Hogan, who joined several of his rallies. Mel Gibson said of Trump: “I don’t think my vote is going to surprise anyone.” The support of conservative celebrities, such as Jon Voight (Angelina Jolie’s father), Dennis Quaid, YouTuber and boxer Jake Paul and Kid Rock plays a major role in rallying the Republican electorate. The latter said: “I know Trump will make America great again.”
According to a YouGov survey, only 11% of Americans admit that celebrities influence their political opinion, and 7% have ever supported a candidate because of a celebrity endorsement. The influence of celebrities therefore remains relative, even if their positions draw attention to the issues. Ultimately, it is the voter, not the celebrity, who will have the last word.
