This midterm election cycle has received more attention than others. In the build-up to the expected blue wave heading to the House of Representatives – and perhaps even the Senate – some celebrities have used their platforms to lead the discussions.
Some candidates amassed a small army of Hollywood supporters, while others really only needed one to carry their name into the national debate.
Here’s a look at some of the candidates who have attracted the most stars as Election Day approaches.
Abdoul El-Sayed
El-Sayed’s bid to represent Michigan in the Senate attracted national attention even without the support of famous people, but that didn’t stop them from coming out in droves for the Democrat.
Musical artists like Bruce Springsteen have openly expressed their support, while actors Susan Sarandon and Adam Brody have also come forward. Even child-rearing YouTuber Ms. Rachel, who became an advocate for children in ICE detention centers, supported El-Sayed.
And even though the Democratic nominee is in a tight race against Republican Mike Rogers, his opponent’s latest endorsement appears to help El-Sayed more than a celebrity’s words.
Amy Acton
Blatant ads against Amy Acton – highlighting her abusive and estranged mother – have largely helped shift the focus to the Democratic candidate running for Ohio governor. But pop star Olivia Rodrigo took that momentum one step further, using her time on stage in the state to not only wear an Acton t-shirt, but also interact with the candidate.
During one of his two concerts in Columbus, Ohio, Rodrigo hugged and handed a small bouquet of flowers to Acton, who was in the crowd, as part of his performance. And although the delivery of the bouquet is an integral part of his act, the WHO behind that moment (along with Rodrigo’s own outfit) spoke volumes.
James Talarico
In one of the most-watched Senate elections in the country, Talarico assembled a nationwide support system of voters and celebrities. With Republicans spewing so much Talarico-style hatred and homophobia, some big names have stepped up to support a candidate who could help turn Texas blue.
Count Willie Nelson and Bill Nye among the self-described Talafreakos, while TV creator Shonda Rhimes hosted a joint fundraiser in support of Talarico and Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff.
Jon Ossoff
The outgoing Peach State senator has had a list of celebrities behind him. Comedian John Leguizamo, a longtime activist, is just one of many.
“He’s the guy to vote for and support!!” the actor tweeted.
Others, like Ben Stiller, Chuck Lorre, Sally Field, Larry David, and Annette Bening, used their wallets to fight for Ossoff, which provided a point of attack for his Republican opponent.
Donald Trump’s minions
Despite not being on the ballot, the president has strutted around the country pretending he is — and we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the so-called celebrities who follow him everywhere.
Of course, rapper Nicki Minaj — who notably can’t vote — has become something of a staple of the Trump campaign. And the country music artist who wrote the racist ballad “Try That in a Small Town,” Jason Aldean, also appeared alongside the president.
But while Trump is urging people to vote as if he were on the ballot, it doesn’t appear that this initiative has been successful – and the “celebrities” standing behind him more than prove it.
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