Hope DeFazio
Contributing Writer
Taylor Swift sparked immediate reactions on social media with her endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris after the 2024 presidential debate between Harris and former President Donald Trump.
Swift’s Instagram post supporting Harris immediately went viral resulting in a mix of excessive praise and criticism. Along with the internet opinions regarding the endorsement, ESU students decided to share their various views on the matter.
Lilly Hall, a registered Democrat and senior at ESU from Monroe County expressed her support for Swift’s decision to speak out. “I resonated with it as a woman,” Hall said, mentioning that she felt a personal connection in Swift’s post. “It felt empowering.”
On the other hand, Emily Johnson, a senior and newly registered Democrat from Northampton County, had a more conflicted view. “I don’t like it when celebrities bring out their political views,” Johnson stated. “It was a power move for her, and people are going to vote Democratic just because of her influence.” While acknowledging Swift’s sway, Johnson expressed discomfort with celebrities’ involvement in political discourse.
Kevin Branas, a junior and registered Republican from Monroe County, was even more critical of celebrity political endorsements. “I believe celebrities should not have opinions on politics,” Branas said. “People look to them as gods, and they don’t do their own research.” Branas, skeptical of Swift’s impact, added that many followers are swayed more by her status than by an informed perspective.
Adding fuel to the fire, Elon Musk replied to Swift’s post with “Fine Taylor…you win… I will give you a child and guard your cats with my life”. His words were repulsed by many, including certain ESU students.
Hall was repulsed over Musk’s comment. “Absolutely disgusting, makes me sick to my stomach,” she said. “It shows his expectations for women and how we don’t hold value if we’re not producing children.” Johnson agreed, saying, “I was pretty disgusted by the way Elon Musk responded to Taylor Swift.”
Branas, however, had a different perspective on Musk’s comment. “I think he was just trying to be funny,” Branas suggested. “If you look at his other tweets, he’s kind of an edge lord, tries to be a bit goofy.”
Swift’s endorsement, combined with Musk’s controversial response, has sparked conversations about the position of celebrities in politics and the influence they have over their followers. With divided reactions, it is evident that the cross of fame and politics will continue to be a trending issue as the 2024 election unfolds.