Have Harris and Trump’s use of celebrities influenced their narrative, and has it had an impact? | US News

November 3, 2024 TruthUSA

A large roadside billboard of Donald Trump marks the entrance into York County, Pennsylvania. It shows the former president in a memorable image with a bloodied ear, being escorted off stage by secret service agents after a failed assassination attempt in the state. The sign urges Pennsylvania residents to “fight back” and “Make sure you vote November 5th.”

In well-groomed yards, “Trump/Vance 2024” signs outnumber those for the Harris/Walz administration. The town of Hanover has overwhelmingly supported Trump in the past two election cycles. However, from a bar on the main street, the faint sound of a known supporter of Kamala Harris can be heard.

Inside, the Fat Bat brewing company is hosting a Taylor Swift-themed brunch. Teenagers pose for pictures with lifesize cardboard cutouts of Swift and younger girls make friendship bracelets while their mums chat over pancakes and lemonade.

Swift is widely adored across the country, but her political views divide even her own fans. In the summer, she publicly endorsed Harris on social media, praising the vice president as a “steady-handed, gifted leader.”

Rumors suggest that Swift may make an appearance with Harris on the final day of campaigning in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state and Swift’s home state.

Her support for Harris creates tension in the Nicholls household, a family of Swift fans who have all attended her “Eras” concert tour wearing merchandise. Dad Warren supports Trump, daughter Sarah is voting for Harris, and mum Prinzie is undecided.

“I believe that singers, musicians, and athletes should stay out of politics,” says Warren, “as it can alienate some people and affect their enjoyment of their performances.”

“I’ll be voting for Donald Trump on Tuesday,” he adds, “no celebrity or famous person will sway my vote.”

When asked if Swift’s political endorsement affects his view of her, Warren responds, “Oh, no, I’m still a fan of hers. Even if my daughter and I don’t agree on everything politically, our shared appreciation for Swift is something we have in common.”

Sarah is 21 and voting for the first time. She plans to vote for Harris due to her support for reproductive rights and her character.

“I think it’s wonderful that Taylor is backing Harris,” says Sarah, “I believe it will influence how Gen Z votes because of her immense fame and the role model she is for many people.”

Mum, Prinzie, has two other daughters aged 23 and 18. With one day left until the election, she remains undecided on her vote. “I’m considering a few factors,” she explains, “as a woman, I’m looking at all aspects and I disagree with some of Donald Trump’s statements.”

“I’m also analyzing the current state of our economy and who will lead us to a better place. Trump did a good job with that in the past,” she concludes.

👉 Listen to Sky News Daily on your podcast app 👈

A recent advert from the Harris campaign suggested some women may conceal their vote from their husbands. But Prinzie says that is absolutely not the case for her.

“He’s in a house full of women,” she says, “he knows we’re strong independent women, and we’ll vote how we feel best represents us. He’s very supportive of that.”

Even if Swift doesn’t appear on stage with Harris, the vice president is closing her final day on the campaign trail with a touch of celebrity. She’ll be joined by Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Oprah Winfrey, and many others in rallies across Pennsylvania.

Trump may not have the same caliber of A-list celebrities supporting him, but he has also targeted a specific audience. Former wrestler Hulk Hogan is a prominent supporter, and Trump took time to appear on the Joe Rogan podcast, popular among young men.

“Politics and culture intersect during major election moments, and we’re witnessing that now,” says Jess O’Connell, a Democratic Party strategist. “Many celebrities are using their platforms to share their voting choices.”