Former President Donald Trump spoke about Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 election in a recent interview with Fox & Friends, claiming that the move could backfire on the pop superstar. The interview aired on Fox News for the purpose of discussing a wide range of political and cultural topics. Remarks about Swift’s endorsement by Trump were the high point that signaled his general views in regard to celebrity endorsements in politics.
In the interview, Trump disavowed Swift’s support for Harris with a fair degree of scorn. Trump referred to Swift as a “very liberal person” for whom this support of Harris was, based on her record of endorsements, unusual. He added that Swift will “do fine” in the “marketplace,” perhaps hinting any backlash she suffers. He seemed to be suggesting that Swift’s support for Democratic candidates may cost her some support among a segment of her fanbase or even hurt her commercially.
In an interesting plot twist for the worlds of celebrity preferences by politicians, Trump professes a strong liking for Brittany Mahomes, wife of NFL star Patrick Mahomes. Trump showered praise on Brittany Mahomes, saying he likes her more than Swift and that she is a “big Trump fan.” The praise of Mahomes is extended from the broader narrative of Trump’s criticism of Swift’s political positions. For example, Trump has spoken loudly about his dislike of Swift’s politicization on the back of perceived partisan endeavors against him.
Trump’s comment hewed to a familiar trope from the former president, who has repeatedly clashed with celebrities who have sided with his political foes. Trump has previously criticized Swift, including over her political endorsements and public remarks, furthering this trend of conflict between the former president and the pop icon.
The reaction to Trump’s latest remarks is sure to spur debate among Swifties and political commentators alike. Swift going for Kamala Harris may be a ripe manifestation of the debates that always have besieged the intersection of celebrity influence and politics. Swift fans may look at Trump’s remarks as one way of diminishing her political voice; stalwart Trump supporters may interpret his comments as a valid critique of the political alignment of one celebrity icon.
