In a dramatic shift within the Democratic Party, Hollywood's elite have thrown their weight behind Vice President Kamala Harris following President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. The entertainment industry's power players are now mobilizing to support Harris, setting the stage for a potentially historic candidacy.
Following Biden’s announcement, a slew of high-profile actors, directors, and producers swiftly expressed their backing for Harris. Major donors such as Jeffrey Katzenberg and Steven Spielberg are among those leading the charge, emphasizing the need for fresh leadership to energize the Democratic base.
This photo should go viral to show what Kamala Harris was good at and famous for was being on her knees. As she liked to prance herself around Hollywood elites. pic.twitter.com/bkUNJpg3gB
— Mr. Tropic (@tropicmr1) July 21, 2024
Rob Reiner, a prominent figure in Hollywood and longtime Democratic supporter, vocalized the urgency of rallying behind Harris. Reiner, who recently hosted a fundraiser attended by Harris, stated, "It’s time to stop f—ing around" and called for Biden to step down in favor of Harris. This sentiment is echoed by other influential Hollywood donors who believe Harris is best positioned to unify and lead the party.
Harris' allies have been quick to mobilize, leveraging her established connections and extensive fundraising network. A women's political organization has started contacting donors to secure early financial commitments, showcasing a significant show of support from female contributors who are eager to see Harris at the helm.
They're Back: Kamala Harris Fires Up Hollywood's Power Brokers https://t.co/jv2d7GvuBx
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) July 22, 2024
In light of Biden’s decision, Democratic leaders such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi have privately urged Biden to reconsider his candidacy. Concerns about Biden's ability to secure a second term have been growing, with internal polls showing a bleak outlook for his re-election prospects.
The push to bolster Harris' campaign is not without its challenges. Some Democratic donors remain cautious, awaiting clearer indications of Harris' path forward before making substantial financial commitments. However, early pledges, including several six-figure donations, signal a robust initial support base.
Amid the excitement surrounding Harris' potential candidacy, other Democratic figures such as California Governor Gavin Newsom and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker are also being discussed as possible contenders should the primary race open up. Both Newsom and Pritzker bring considerable fundraising capabilities and political clout to the table, adding complexity to the Democratic nomination process.
As the Democratic Party navigates this transition, the backing from Hollywood’s elite underscores the strategic importance of celebrity endorsements and financial contributions. Harris' ability to galvanize support from this influential sector may prove pivotal as she prepares to take on the mantle of leadership in the 2024 presidential race .
