Named TIME’s Person of the Year and boosting the U.S. economy by billions of dollars, the power and influence that Taylor Swift holds is undeniable. With the U.S. presidential elections upcoming, Swift’s influence has been a crucial center of attention in Joe Biden’s re-election campaign. But, how much influence does one of the world’s best-selling musicians really have?
Swift walked into politics in 2018 by endorsing former Democratic Tennessee governor Phil Bredesen, making it clear her position in U.S. politics. Swift said in a social media post, “I always have and always will cast my vote based on which candidate will protect and fight for the human rights I believe we all deserve in this country.” Since then, Swift has been on a roll supporting the Democratic party, including her support of Biden in the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
According to The Guardian, “It is improbable that Swift’s opinion would be the deciding factor for a voter torn between supporting Trump or Biden—if such a person exists—but the pop superstar is far more likely to propel voter turnout.” This means that it is unlikely for the pop star to influence the winner of the election. Swift has been continuously encouraging fans to be informed about and to participate in the election. Swift has also partnered with Vote.org—a nonprofit organization providing resources and online voter guides. Thus, Swift is a politically active artist, promoting the causes she believes in. According to a NBC News poll on ‘How voters rate Taylor Swift,’ 53% of Democrats gave Swift a positive vote while only 28% of Republicans said the same. It is worth noting, however, that even though the majority of Democratic supporters think positively of Swift, many say that Swift’s endorsement would not influence their vote.
I believe that though Swift has a powerful influence on many, it is improbable that this will change votes. In our society, Swift has definitely become an idolizing figure for children, maybe even influencing their decisions and beliefs. I think this influence is decreased in adults and older adolescents, who are well-informed on politics and are likely not swayed by a celebrity endorsement. Even if an idol of mine were to be as politically active as Swift, their ideas would not directly change my own opinions.
In conclusion, it is unlikely that Swift’s fame will be enough to influence a big enough group of people to drastically change votes. Still, Swift continues to be a role model, encouraging her fans to vote and use their voices to uplift our society.