Lately, there has been a lot of debate about whether or not it is appropriate for entertainers to openly state their political views. Through the emergence of social media, it has become significantly easier for people in the spotlight to have their own individual voices.
It seems as though, particularly with this most recent election, many actors, athletes, musicians, and stars have been openly stating their
political views and who they are supporting throughout the election. The band The National posted a video on their Facebook page which shows their lead singer, Matt Berninger, describing the reasoning behind his political views. Singer Miley Cyrus has been actively using her Instagram account to share her support of Hillary Clinton, while attempting to convince her fans to follow suit. Actor James Woods took to social media multiple times to state his disapproval of Hillary Clinton. He has posted a tremendous amount of tweets pertaining to his opinions on the election overall, and how he feels both democrats and republicans have issues to work on.
Some fans have been accepting of the fact that that these entertainers are voicing their opinions. These fans believe it is at the person’s discretion to post information like this, while others disapprove of the action and think it negatively affects their overall image.
Those who believe it is appropriate argue that it is an entertainer’s right to talk about whatever they want. Ultimately, they are not doing anything illegal, but rather just practicing the first amendment. People argue that these entertainers are using their stance and sense of power to try and make a difference. It is argued that entertainers have a platform where they can be heard and represent those who are voiceless, and that what they are doing is ethical and just. Entertainers understand that many people look up to them and listen to them, so by using their power, they can possibly affect their fans and get them to listen.
To counter this argument, some believe that although entertainers are just practicing their freedom of speech, they should refrain from pushing their personal views onto those around them. They argue that if they want to state who they are supporting, they should do so exclusively on their private social media accounts. They should not try to convince their own fans of anything otherwise. By using their power to influence their fans to agree with their views, some look at it as unprofessional, and even a form of manipulation. Others believe that entertainers have no authority or reason to try and convince fans of their political views, as they are not political experts themselves. Many are even skeptical about whether the support is legitimate, or if these entertainers were paid to represent the candidate they are claim to support.
Ultimately, it is at the entertainer’s discretion whether or not they want to state their support. But is it appropriate?