CNN, also known as Cable News Network, is a renowned news organization that has been at the forefront of delivering breaking news, analysis, and in-depth coverage of current events for decades. In recent times, CNN has also been covering the intersection of celebrities and politics, shedding light on how influential figures in the entertainment industry can impact civic engagement and voter participation.
Former president and Republican nominee Donald Trump made headlines by bringing out Hulk Hogan and Kid Rock to the Republican National Convention last month. On the other side of the political spectrum, Vice President Kamala Harris has garnered support from star-powered artists like Megan Thee Stallion, George Clooney, and Jennifer Aniston. These high-profile endorsements raise the question of whether celebrity efforts truly move the needle in politics or if they are merely hype.
A new study conducted by Harvard University’s Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, shared exclusively with CNN, delves into the role of celebrities in promoting civic participation. Contrary to some polling data that suggests people are not influenced by celebrity voices in politics, the study reveals that these voices hold significant power. When celebrities advocate for calls to action, nonprofits report higher rates of online voter registration and poll worker sign-ups.
The Harvard study emphasizes that celebrities are uniquely positioned to empower everyday Americans to exercise their civic rights. With their substantial influence and reach, celebrities serve as powerful advocates for social and political causes, shaping cultural conversations and inspiring action. While the report focuses on nonpartisan voter participation efforts, it highlights the crucial role celebrities play in educating, mobilizing, and encouraging Americans to register to vote.
Ashley Spillane, the study’s author and co-founder of the Civic Responsibility Project, underscores the importance of creating a culture of participation, particularly among younger voters who face barriers to engagement. Celebrities have a special ability to connect with younger generations through social media, which has become their primary source of news. As Gen Z and Millennials spend significant time on social platforms, celebrities can leverage their influence to increase voter participation among these demographics.
The study examines celebrity campaigns across various mediums, including television, documentaries, merchandising, and public service announcements. It analyzes initiatives from celebrities like Kerry Washington, Billie Eilish, Hailey Bieber, Trevor Noah, and Taylor Swift in recent election cycles. For instance, Taylor Swift’s Instagram post encouraging voter registration led to a record-breaking day for new voter registrations at Vote.org.
Celebrities like Ariana Grande, Kylie Jenner, and Billie Eilish have actively promoted voter registration and engagement among their fan bases, resulting in tangible impacts on voter turnout. By collaborating with non-profits and leveraging their platforms, celebrities have successfully mobilized thousands of individuals to participate in the democratic process.
In conclusion, the intersection of celebrities and politics is a powerful force for driving civic engagement and voter participation. As celebrities use their platforms to advocate for social and political causes, they play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and inspiring action. By harnessing their influence and reach, celebrities can empower individuals, especially younger voters, to make their voices heard and actively participate in democracy.
