The 2024 US presidential election is in full swing, and with millions of voters already casting their ballots, the race is heating up. As the contenders vie for the top spot, a wave of celebrity endorsements has added a new dimension to the campaign, particularly for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. From music icons like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé to actors like Leonardo DiCaprio and Arnold Schwarzenegger, many prominent figures have voiced their support for Harris, emphasizing her commitment to critical issues like climate change, women’s rights, and racial justice.
One of the most notable endorsements came from Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former Governor of California and Hollywood action star. In a tweet, Schwarzenegger declared, “I will always be an American before I am a Republican. That’s why this week, I am voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.” He went on to express his disapproval of former President Donald Trump, stating, “We need to close this chapter of American history, and I know former President Trump won’t do it. He will divide, he will insult, he will find new ways to be more un-American than he already has been, and we, the people, will get nothing but anger, more anger.”
Music sensation Bad Bunny also threw his support behind Harris, sharing a clip on Instagram of Harris criticizing Trump for his handling of the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. This followed racist remarks made by American comedian Tony Hinchcliffe about Puerto Rico at a Trump rally, sparking outrage and bringing the island’s struggles into the spotlight.
Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, two of music’s most influential voices, joined Harris at a rally in Houston, Texas. During the event, Rowland emphasized the importance of this moment for the nation: “Welcome to this day… this moment that is so significant for our country, for our people, and for the world. This moment, Houston, where we take the pen back from those who want to write an American story of division and hate.” Beyoncé, echoing these sentiments, highlighted Harris’s commitment to unity: “Vice President Kamala Harris is a woman who stands for what this country truly needs right now: unity.”
Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio also took to social media to express his support for Harris. In an Instagram video, DiCaprio addressed the pressing issue of climate change and criticized Trump’s rollback of environmental policies. He stated, “That’s why I’m voting for Kamala Harris. She has helped to lead the most significant climate action in US history…Under her leadership, we’ve set ambitious goals: reaching net zero emissions by 2025 to build a green economy that not only creates jobs, but also helps save our planet.”
Sarah Jessica Parker, the iconic actress known for her role in “Sex and the City,” shared a photo of herself holding a Harris/Walz sign on Instagram. Alongside the image, she listed her reasons for supporting the Democratic ticket: “For sensible gun laws/For a living wage/For opportunity/For women/… With an abundance of joy, optimism and pride/I am voting for Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz.”
These are just a few examples of the numerous celebrities who have thrown their weight behind Kamala Harris. Their endorsements highlight the growing awareness of critical issues and the desire for a shift in leadership. As the election draws closer, it remains to be seen whether these endorsements will translate into votes and help propel Harris to the presidency.