On Tuesday, 33-year-old music superstar, Taylor Swift, addressed her vast following on Instagram to emphasize the significance of voter registration for the forthcoming 2023 midterm elections. She questioned her fans, “Are you registered to vote yet?” before recounting the enthusiasm she witnessed during the US leg of her Eras Tour which concluded in August.
Swift’s Statement
“I’ve been so fortunate to witness so many of you at my US concerts lately,” she noted. “Hearing your powerful voices uplifted me. Ensure you’re geared up to make those voices resonate in this year’s elections!” Swift supplemented her encouragement with a practical link, directing followers to vote.org’s Everything You Need to Vote page. Here, individuals can register to vote, verify their status, apply for absentee ballots, get election reminders, and inspect state-specific registration deadlines.
A History of Advocacy
Swift’s recent appeal is not an isolated instance. She has been progressively vocal about political matters, especially since 2018. This includes:
- July of the Current Year: Swift encouraged Nashville’s residents to cast their ballots in a closely-watched city mayoral election, considering the backdrop of controversial state legislations.
- 2020: She highlighted the importance of her fans, fondly referred to as ‘Swifties’, participating in the voting process.
- 2018: Swift publicly supported Phil Bredesen, the Democratic contender for Tennessee’s Senate seat.
- Ongoing Advocacy: Beyond electoral involvement, Swift has been a staunch advocate for racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights. In 2019, she publicized a heartfelt letter addressed to Republican Senator Lamar Alexander from Tennessee. The letter passionately implored the Senator to back the Equality Act aimed at eliminating discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.
Other Public Figures Joining the Cause
Swift is not alone in this endeavor to boost electoral participation. On the same day, former First Lady Michelle Obama disseminated a video message through her initiative, When We All Vote. She was accompanied by notable personalities such as NBA’s Chris Paul, YouTuber Liza Koshy, and influencer Bretman Rock. The video’s call to action encouraged Americans to confirm their voter registration and to motivate three others to do the same.
Context of the Upcoming Elections
The 2023 US elections, slated for November 7, are off-year elections which, though they don’t encompass presidential races, still hold considerable weight. The agenda includes gubernatorial and state legislative elections in selected states, numerous citizen-driven initiatives, mayoral competitions, and an assortment of other local administrative roles. These elections serve as a precursor to the paramount US presidential elections, which are set for November 5, 2024.
The Influence of Celebrities in Politics
It is increasingly evident that celebrities, especially of Swift’s stature, possess an influential voice that resonates beyond the entertainment world. Their platforms, when used strategically, can have profound impacts on societal perspectives and actions.
Swift’s Growing Influence
Beyond her music, Taylor Swift is becoming a symbol of advocacy for various causes. By leveraging her platform and her massive following, Swift has successfully brought attention to numerous issues. Her recent endeavors to mobilize the youth to participate in elections underscores her commitment to societal change. Not just satisfied with passively endorsing, Swift actively provides resources and information to her fans, ensuring they have the tools they need to make a difference.
Latin American Tour: More Than Just Music
The upcoming Latin American leg of Swift’s Eras Tour is anticipated to be more than just a series of concerts. Sources suggest that there will be segments dedicated to advocating for global causes and emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action. Given the current climate of the world, such interludes in her concerts signify the amalgamation of entertainment and impactful messages.
Looking Ahead
Swift’s advocacy will soon be mirrored in her professional life as her concert film, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour”, is set to premiere in cinemas on October 13. Subsequently, the singing sensation will embark on the international chapter of her live show, initiating in November with performances scheduled in Latin America, captivating fans from Mexico City to Buenos Aires.
