WASHINGTON: With the 2024 US presidential election approaching, a wide spectrum of celebrity endorsements—from music icons and sports legends to tech moguls—is energizing the campaigns of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Support from high-profile personalities has become a crucial asset, bolstering each candidate’s base in the high-stakes race.
Music superstar Taylor Swift has publicly endorsed Vice President Harris, rallying her extensive fanbase in what is now a formidable grassroots effort titled “Swifties for Kamala.” This youth-focused movement has already connected with millions of potential voters, and Swift’s influence is clearly resonating.
Within just 24 hours of her endorsement, an estimated 340,000 people visited a voter registration link Swift shared on Instagram.
On the other hand, tech billionaire Elon Musk has pledged strong financial support for Trump’s campaign. Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, backed Trump after an assassination attempt on the former president in July, committing significant resources through his America PAC.
So far, Musk’s fund has injected $75 million into Trump’s campaign, targeting key battleground states like Pennsylvania and Arizona. Musk’s advocacy of free speech and national security policies aligns closely with Trump’s platform and has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with a September poll noting that while 13% of voters felt more enthusiastic about Trump after Musk’s endorsement, 21% felt less so.
Trump’s campaign has also garnered support from WWE legends Hulk Hogan and The Undertaker, who have rallied fans with viral content backing the former president. Appearing alongside WWE founder Vince McMahon, these icons have brought an unconventional but influential presence to Trump’s campaign.
Meanwhile, Mick Foley, a wrestling star known for his “Mankind” persona, endorsed Harris, voicing disappointment with Trump, whom he labeled a “dangerous conman.” Foley expressed admiration for Harris, whom he views as embodying competence and hope, especially among progressive voters in his fanbase.
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Adding to Harris’s campaign momentum, pop icon Beyoncé hosted a rally in Houston, underscoring her support with an emotional speech and performing her song “Freedom” as a rallying anthem. Emphasizing rights and empowerment, Beyoncé’s endorsement resonates particularly with Black and younger voters.
Hollywood stars and former political figures, including Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, have rallied behind Harris as well. Influential backers like Bill Gates and Mark Cuban, as well as Vogue editor Anna Wintour, reflect a diverse coalition, helping Harris reach across business, entertainment, and political spheres.
Trump’s celebrity backing extends beyond Musk, with stars like Kid Rock, Jon Voight, and UFC President Dana White adding visibility to his campaign. Financial support from billionaire figures such as Linda McMahon and Steve Wynn has also strengthened Trump’s resources for outreach in crucial battlegrounds, while conservative influencers like Dave Ramsey have broadened his appeal to voters nationwide.
