Taylor Swift is stepping up in her political journey.
What began as a subtle approach to feminism has transformed into a bold commitment to various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and voter engagement. Swift now plays a dual role as a pop icon and advocate, mobilizing her followers towards the issues that matter to her.
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Here’s a look at some key moments in Taylor Swift’s political evolution.
Early 2010s: Staying Out of Politics
In her early career, Swift was notably silent on political matters.
In a 2012 interview, she shared, “I just think that as a 22-year-old singer, people might not want to hear my political opinions. They’d rather have my music about relationships and emotions.”
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However, by 2014, she proudly embraced the feminist label, stating in an interview with the Guardian, “I didn’t get that being a feminist means advocating for equal rights for everyone.” Her friendship with Lena Dunham further deepened her understanding of feminism and its importance.
2018: A Political Awakening
In 2018, Swift broke her long-standing silence to openly endorse Democratic candidates in Tennessee. This marked her significant political pivot.
“I’ve been hesitant to voice my opinions, but recent events have changed that,” she wrote on Instagram, advocating for issues like LGBTQ rights and anti-discrimination. Her endorsement led to an impressive surge in voter registrations, showcasing the “Taylor Swift Effect,” which saw 169,000 new registrations within just two days.
2019: Championing LGBTQ Rights
By June 2019, Swift amplified her support for LGBTQ rights by writing to her senator in favor of the Equality Act and urging her fans to do the same. She even initiated a Change.org petition to rally support, encouraging her followers to demand equality under the law.
2020: Speaking Against Trump
In 2020, Swift escalated her political voice by denouncing President Trump’s tweets regarding the Black Lives Matter protests, calling out his inflammatory language.
She tweeted, “After fueling white supremacy your entire presidency, you have the gall to pretend to be morally superior?” Shortly thereafter, she documented her experience and political awakening in her Netflix film, Miss Americana.
2023: Focusing on Voter Registration
Ahead of the 2024 elections, Swift ramped up her advocacy for voting rights. On National Voting Day, she encouraged her followers, “Are you registered to vote yet?” Her posts generated 35,000 new registrations in just one day.
2024: Supporting Kamala Harris
As the 2024 election approached, Swift publicly backed Kamala Harris via Instagram, urging her fans to vote based on their values. Swift expressed admiration for Harris’s leadership and commitment to important issues like LGBTQ rights and women’s health.
Ending her post with a personal touch, Swift humorously signed off as “Childless Cat Lady,” referencing a derogatory comment made by Trump’s campaign.