As the 2024 US Presidential Elections draw near, the influence of pop sensation Taylor Swift is becoming a subject of considerable speculation. With a record-breaking global tour and the title of TIME Magazine’s ‘Person of the Year in 2023,’ Swift’s popularity has reached new heights. Here are five reasons why Taylor Swift is making waves in the political arena, particularly in the context of the Trump vs. Biden battle.
1. Swift’s Popularity vs. Trump’s Grousing:
TIME Magazine’s decision to name Taylor Swift as ‘Person of the Year in 2023’ reportedly led to private expressions of discontent from former President Donald Trump. Rolling Stone cited sources stating that Trump had privately claimed to be “more popular” than Swift, fueling discussions about the extent of Swift’s influence compared to the former president.
2. Swift’s Potential Endorsement for Biden:
While Taylor Swift has not officially endorsed any candidate for the 2024 elections, there is speculation that she might support President Joe Biden. Aides to the president are reportedly considering Swift as a campaign surrogate due to her ability to mobilize millions of supporters through social media. Swift had endorsed Biden in 2020, and her influence on voter registrations was evident in the impact of a single Instagram post.
3. Swift’s Appeal to Younger Voters:
A Newsweek poll published on January 28 revealed that Taylor Swift’s endorsement could have the greatest impact on younger voters. Approximately 18 percent of voters expressed that they would be “more likely” or “significantly more likely” to vote for a candidate endorsed by Swift. The poll indicated that her influence is particularly strong among Americans under 35.
4. Conspiracy Theories and Super Bowl Connections:
Swift’s involvement with her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, became a topic of right-wing conspiracy theories, claiming it was part of a deep state plot to influence the 2024 election. Additionally, a conspiracy theory about the Super Bowl LVIII being rigged in favor of Travis Kelce further highlighted Swift’s ability to capture attention and spark discussions, even outside the music realm.
5. Trump Allies’ ‘Holy War’ Against Swift:
Reports have surfaced about allies of Donald Trump pledging a “holy war” against Taylor Swift. Swift had openly criticized Trump during the 2020 election, accusing him of attempting to tamper with the US Postal Service. This ongoing conflict underscores the perceived significance of Swift’s influence in political discourse.
As the November 5, 2024, election date approaches, the role of celebrities like Taylor Swift in shaping political narratives and influencing voter sentiments is becoming a noteworthy aspect of the campaign landscape. Swift’s ability to connect with diverse demographics, particularly the youth, and spark discussions even amid conspiracy theories makes her a potential game-changer in the upcoming elections.