If you’ve ever dared to utter anything less than flattering about Taylor Swift online, you’ve probably already encountered the sheer force of her devoted followers. Swifties, as they’re known, are renowned for their strategic prowess (refer to: the collapse of Ticketmaster) as well as their immense fervor for the object of their pop admiration. So it shouldn’t be astonishing that a dedicated group among them—Swifties for Kamala—are channeling their abundant enthusiasm into assisting Kamala Harris’s presidential bid this November. Although the group emphasizes it isn’t officially affiliated with Swift, their clout is nonetheless formidable: Swifties for Kamala has amassed nearly $150K in campaign donations and has recently hosted notable figures such as Carole King, along with senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, during their inaugural fundraising call.
Vogue recently chatted with two active members of the Swifties for Kamala movement—first-time campaign participant Emerald Medrano and swing-state voter Carly Long—about their political drive, the intersection of Taylor Swift fandom with Harris-Walz 2024 campaign principles, and the significance of preventing another Trump presidency. Read the comprehensive interview below:
Vogue: What motivated you to engage with the Harris-Walz 2024 campaign?
Emerald Medrano, 22, cofounder and chairman of Swifties for Kamala: In an unusual manner, my worries have truly driven me to participate in this election. Regardless of the November outcome, I want to look back on this election period knowing that I gave my all to support Kamala in becoming the 47th president of the United States. I wish to avoid regrets and reside in a country that acknowledges everyone with kindness. I believe America is poised to shine, and Kamala will allow us to dazzle.
Carly Long, 25, communications director for Swifties for Kamala: When Kamala Harris became the presumptive candidate, a profound sense of optimism for the election filled me. For once, I was not just casting a vote against something but voting for someone—for an intelligent and strong figure, for someone committed to advocating for minority rights and safety, for a lively and spirited candidate. Her campaign instilled pride in my choice, and I aspire to be part of electing the first woman to lead this nation!