Former president Donald Trump launched an attack on pop superstar Taylor Swift on Sunday, accusing her of being “disloyal” for not endorsing him for the 2024 presidential election.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump took credit for signing the Music Modernization Act in 2018, which he claimed helped Swift earn substantial money. He contrasted this with president Joe Biden, stating “Joe Biden didn’t do anything for Taylor, and never will.”
Trump Demands Loyalty from Swift
Trump went on to say there is “no way” Swift could endorse Biden for reelection in 2024 over himself. He labeled this potential endorsement as an act of disloyalty against “the man who made her so much money.”
The former president also speculated that Swift’s boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, is likely a liberal who doesn’t like Trump. “Besides that, I like her boyfriend, Travis, even though he may be a Liberal, and probably can’t stand me!” Trump wrote.
These complaints come amid speculation that Swift may publicly endorse Biden as she did in the 2020 election. Swift has been an outspoken critic of Trump in the past, accusing him of trying to tamper with the US Postal Service during the last election.
Swift’s Endorsement Could Sway Voters
Several polls and reports have suggested a Taylor Swift endorsement could influence voters, especially younger demographics. This potential influence is thought to be a point of concern for the Trump campaign.
When Swift endorsed Biden in 2020, it directly led to tens of thousands of new voter registrations. Trump allies now reportedly fear she poses a “potent danger” to his reelection chances if she campaigns against him again.
One poll found 18% of voters are more likely to vote for a candidate endorsed by Swift. That number rises to nearly 30% among voters under 35 years old. With Swift’s massive public platform, an endorsement from her could sway key demographics.
Trump Inserts Himself into Swift-Kelce Relationship
Beyond demanding Swift’s loyalty, Trump also inserted himself into her high-profile relationship with Travis Kelce. Kelce and his Kansas City Chiefs are playing in the Super Bowl on Sunday, where Kelce and Swift’s romance has been a major talking point.
Some far-right conspiracy theorists have even claimed the relationship is an elaborate ploy to promote Biden’s reelection. Trump acknowledging the relationship unprompted raises further questions about his focus on Swift as the 2024 race takes shape.
Swift has not responded to Trump’s social media attacks. She and Biden appear aligned in their public disdain for the former president. With Trump already launching angry broadsides, the 2024 election cycle appears set for more bitter rhetoric as November approaches.