Mega pop star Taylor Swift has 112 million Instagram followers, so what better way to dive into politics for the first time than on social media? That's exactly what she did Sunday.
In announcing her support for Tennessee's Democratic U.S. Senate candidate, Phil Bredesen, Swift strongly criticized the state's Republican Senate candidate, current U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn.
“I cannot vote for someone who will not be willing to fight for dignity for ALL Americans, no matter their skin color, gender or who they love,” the singer said in an Instagram post aimed at urging her followers to get out and vote during the upcoming midterm elections.
"As much as I have in the past and would like to continue voting for women in office, I cannot support Marsha Blackburn," Swift wrote.
Swift cited Blackburn’s congressional voting record, saying it “appalls and terrifies me.”
“She voted against equal pay for women. She voted against the Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, which attempts to protect women from domestic violence, stalking, and date rape. She believes businesses have a right to refuse service to gay couples. She also believes they should not have the right to marry,” Swift said.
“These are not MY Tennessee values,” she said. “I will be voting for Phil Bredesen for Senate and Jim Cooper for House of Representatives.”
Taylor told her followers there may never be a candidate they completely agree with, but she urged them to vote anyway.
"Please, please educate yourself on the candidates running in your state and vote based on who most closely represents your values," she said.
Blackburn and Bredesen are running to fill retiring Republican Sen. Bob Corker’s seat.
Thursday is the last day to register to vote in Tennessee for the Nov. 6 midterm election.
About the Author
