It's a well known fact that Hollywood leans left when it comes to political views, but the current trend is having a new effect on politics. CNN discussed how George Clooney is pouring funds into the Obama campaign. An article by Jen Christensen exposed that a dinner held at Clooney's house raised over 15 million dollars for the President. In fact, celebrity donation is one of the biggest contributions to Obama's campaign funds. Other celebs including Tyler Perry and Eva Longoria hold similar fundraising events for the re-election campaign, possibly scoring votes from unlikely demographics. Support from Hollywood is likely to increase with Obama's announcement regarding same-sex marriage from the other day. These hot topic issues gain a lot of media attention and it makes sense that celebrities want to show their support for the decisions that they stand for.
Celebrity support also helps the circulation of the President's campaign in the media. Having people like Clooney selling tickets to events on his behalf really gets Obama's name permeating society on a daily basis. It may even reach those citizens that do not stay educated in political happenings of every day. Just having his platform and his name thrown about casually by celebs is positive reinforcement.
But my question is, where is the line? Obama has clearly gained some celebrity credit for obvious reasons, but is this where he should be gaining renown? How does this reflect on his campaign? I have mixed feelings...we don't need a popular face for president. We don't need someone with ties to Hollywood. We just need a great leader, and I feel like this increase in "star" support is a little bit odd. Your thoughts?
2 comments:
The celebrity support for the Obama campaign can only have positive effect on his campaign. Especially endorsement from an actor such as George Clooney will not only benefit President Obama's campaign financing but will benefit his image amongst America. It is well known that celebrities also have a heavy influence on the public, as they are kind of looked up to. Being popular in hollywood will show the charisma of president Obama, and charisma always attracts a good portion of American voters.
I don't think that there's really any harm in Obama mixing his names with some celebrities. Ultimately, it's a publicity stunt that will draw more attention to his name as well as draw upon the financial support of the wealthy. I think a huge part of this is him banking in on the free media associated with his presidential incumbency. Putting two big names such as George Clooney and Barack Obama is bound to attract much more media attention than just a fundraising event put on by Obama alone.
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