In a surprise move, global superstar Taylor Swift has publicly endorsed Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, praising her as a “gifted leader” who “fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them.”

Swift, who has become increasingly vocal about her politics in recent years, made the endorsement on her Instagram Story on Tuesday evening, following a debate between Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump.

“I’ve made my choice,” Swift wrote, alongside a photo of Harris. “I’m so proud to endorse @KamalaHarris for President. She’s a steady-handed, gifted leader who fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

Swift, who has a massive following of over 140 million on Instagram, also encouraged her fans to do their research on the issues and candidates, and included a link to a voter registration website.

“I’m not just endorsing Kamala because I think she’s the best person for the job – I’m endorsing her because I believe in her,” Swift wrote. “I believe in her vision for a better America, and I believe in her ability to make that vision a reality.”

Swift’s endorsement of Harris is significant, given her massive influence and reach. The singer-songwriter has been named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world, and her music and message have resonated with fans across the globe.

Harris, who has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, racial justice, and climate action, has been building momentum in the Democratic primary. Her debate performance on Tuesday evening was widely praised, with many pundits and analysts declaring her the winner.

Swift’s endorsement is likely to give Harris a boost in the polls, particularly among young voters and women. According to a recent survey, 71% of Swift’s fans identify as female, and 62% are between the ages of 18 and 34.

Swift’s endorsement of Harris is not her first foray into politics. In 2018, she endorsed Democratic candidates Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper in the Tennessee midterm elections, and in 2020, she endorsed Joe Biden for president.

However, Swift’s endorsement of Harris is significant because it comes at a critical moment in the Democratic primary. With just months to go before the Iowa caucuses, Harris is facing intense competition from other candidates, including Biden, Bernie Sanders, and Elizabeth Warren.

Swift’s endorsement is also notable because it highlights the growing importance of celebrity endorsements in politics. In recent years, celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, and Leonardo DiCaprio have all endorsed candidates and causes, using their massive platforms to raise awareness and mobilize their fans.

As the 2024 election heats up, it’s likely that we’ll see more celebrities weighing in on the issues and endorsing candidates. But for now, Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris is the biggest news in politics.