Los Angeles — Former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick has raised eyebrows with her critical view of Taylor Swift’s recent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential campaign. Patrick, who has never shied away from her conservative stance, took to social media to air her suspicions about the genuineness and timing of Swift’s political declaration.
Swift, who is on her Eras Tour grossing over $13 million per show, made headlines with her endorsement following the presidential debate on September 10. Her public declaration of support brought varied reactions from the celebrity world and political commentators alike.
On an Instagram reel, Patrick shared her thoughts, wondering about the promptness of Swift’s detailed post-debate endorsement. “I love her music TBH (to be honest),” Patrick said, “But there’s no way that long post was ready right after the debate. I have been on the other side, that was probably written and revised by a team over the last week. Aka. A plan.”
The remarks by Patrick, the most accomplished female driver in American open-wheel racing history, have sparked a wider discussion on the authenticity and strategy behind celebrity political endorsements. Her critique underscores a belief that celebrity endorsements might be less impromptu and more about strategic alignment.
Since hanging up her racing helmet in 2018, Patrick has been proactive in promoting healthy living and wellness, sharing her fitness routines and dietary tips, despite dealing with her own health challenges like high cholesterol.
Her skepticism towards Swift’s political participation seems to resonate particularly well with some conservative circles online. One viral video reposted by Patrick carried the tagline, “Dear Swifities voting for Kamala just because Taylor endorsed her. May I remind you that 90% of her hit songs are about choosing the wrong person.”
Beyond the racetrack, Patrick has been vocal about her political inclinations, often supporting conservative causes and critiquing Democratic policies and figures. Her contributions to motorsports are historic, being the first woman to claim victory in an IndyCar competition and securing a third-place finish at the Indianapolis 500, a record for female drivers.
Transitioning from motorsports to media, Patrick now provides expert analysis for Sky Sports F1 and NBC’s coverage of the Indianapolis 500. Additionally, her entrepreneurial spirit has led her to launch a sportswear line, Warrior by Danica Patrick, and a wine brand known as Somnium, which translates to ‘dream’ in Latin.
Taylor Swift’s camp has not directly addressed Patrick’s comments. The incident not only highlights Patrick’s influential presence in public discourse but also reignites debate over the impact celebrity endorsements may have on public opinion and potentially, electoral outcomes.