In an election cycle marked by unprecedented celebrity engagement, the impact of prominent figures on voter turnout has become increasingly noticeable. With the approaching 2024 presidential election, celebrities are leveraging their platforms to mobilize voters, shape presidential platforms, and change the norms of the election.
Celebrity endorsements play a crucial role in voter turnout, particularly seen in the recent elections by a younger demographic. A report done by Pew Research Center presents that voters aged 18-29 are significantly more likely to participate in elections when they feel a connection to a celebrity endorsing a candidate.
Figures such as musical phenomenon Taylor Swift have become a forefront; Swift was able to encourage voter registration and participation with the use of her vast media following. After her 2020 campaign boost, voter registration increased by over 150,000 in just a few weeks.
“Seeing the importance of my vote honestly didn’t even come from the news, but from an Instagram post Taylor Swift made,” says PPCHS sophomore Alexa Hernandez. I was surprised that she cared so much about [the election], but it made me realize I should probably give my due diligence and vote when I have the ability to.”
Similar powers can and have been used by celebrities with the intent to spread awareness and spark change in others’ political perspectives. With the platform many celebrities are active on, the internet can be used to their advantage in promoting their ideas to a large audience. Especially during election season, celebrity voices are important and do bring light to important issues and legislation.
“I might not always agree with what they are saying, but these posts by celebrities give perspective to what is happening in the country,” explains PPCHS senior Justin Morales.
Twitter and Instagram have served as battlegrounds regarding the use of the First Amendment. Millions all around the world can see the vulnerability of the country through celebrities’ public statements. TV show host Andy Cohen emphasized the vulnerability that his family brings to him by stating, “It’s an investment in my daughter’s future… I want her to make her own decisions.”
His statement provoked a thought for many parents that the election goes beyond the four years a president will serve, but for generations beyond it. “We are the future, and that is so powerful. Seeing that I can make a difference, starting off from the simple posts made by celebrities on social media really inspires me,” says Charter sophomore Christine Mathew.
As Election Day quickly approaches, the role of celebrities goes beyond the flashing camera lights on red carpets to the continuous shaping of the political landscape. Celebrity endorsements play a prevalent role in engagement of younger voters and the influence on public opinion.
