Swift announced her intention to vote for Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, citing Harris’s dedication to important causes and her ability to lead with calm rather than chaos. Swift praised Walz for his advocacy on LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive health, and other issues she values.
The pop star signed her post with the phrase “Childless Cat Lady,” a nod to a comment made by JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, who had used a similar term in a 2021 interview. Vance had faced backlash for the remark, which he later claimed was meant sarcastically.
Swift also addressed misleading AI-generated images that falsely suggested she supported Trump, explaining that the controversy motivated her to clarify her political stance. She urged her followers to research the candidates and issues thoroughly before making their decisions.
Swift’s political endorsements have evolved over the years. While she remained neutral in her earlier career, she endorsed Democratic candidate Phil Bredesen in 2018 and supported President Biden in 2020. Although there were rumors of her or Beyoncé appearing at the Democratic National Convention, neither artist made an appearance.
In response to Swift’s endorsement, Tim Walz expressed gratitude and encouraged her fans to support the campaign. Harris’s campaign spokesperson, Ian Sams, noted the significance of Swift’s endorsement, highlighting her influence and the impact of her support on the vice president’s performance.
Trump, however, dismissed Swift’s endorsement in a Fox News interview, preferring the backing he received from Brittany Mahomes. He criticized Swift, labeling her as a “very liberal person” and suggesting that her endorsement could have negative consequences for her.
Both Republican and Democratic figures reacted to the endorsement. California Governor Gavin Newsom praised Swift as a cultural icon and advised Trump to refrain from disparaging the endorsement. Meanwhile, Republican Representative Matt Gaetz commented on the intersection of art and politics, noting the contrast between the roles of liberals and conservatives.
