In a strategic move aimed at boosting voter engagement ahead of the upcoming elections, Vice President Kamala Harris has launched a new advertising campaign following the endorsement of her campaign by pop superstar Taylor Swift. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced these initiatives on September 13, targeting high-visibility locations in major cities such as New York City and Las Vegas.
The advertising campaign features catchy slogans intended to resonate with Swift's extensive fanbase, including notable phrases like "We're in our Kamala era!" and "A New Way Forward Ready For It?" A prominent aspect of the campaign is a towering billboard in Times Square, standing 22 stories high, that cleverly references Swift’s hit song "22" and her acclaimed album "Red." Additionally, a billboard in Las Vegas provocatively confronts former President Donald Trump with the phrase, "Exhausted with this guy?"
Swift's endorsement has reportedly led to a significant increase in voter engagement. Following her endorsement, approximately half a million visitors accessed Vote.gov within 24 hours, a dramatic surge compared to the typical daily average of about 30,000. Data compiled by TargetSmart indicates that voter registrations increased by 400 to 500 percent, resulting in an estimated 9,000 to 10,000 new registrations per hour.
Rosemary Boeglin, communications director for the DNC, underlined the contrasting political strategies of Harris and Trump, emphasizing Harris's commitment to mobilizing voters as Election Day approaches. Swift's prior endorsement of Joe Biden during the 2020 election highlights her ongoing engagement in political advocacy.
In response to Swift’s endorsement of Harris, Trump has suggested that she might face backlash for her political stance and has taken a dismissive tone regarding her artistic contributions. Swift’s activism places her alongside many artists who align with similar political beliefs, further strengthening Harris’s campaign as the election draws nearer. Her recent triumphs at the 2024 MTV VMAs, where she won multiple awards, solidify her status as a critical figure in contemporary political discourse.