While many celebrities were observed weighing in on the election last year, an even greater number appear to be stepping from the shadows in order to make use of flaunting their status and influence in objection to the presidential elect. Namely, stars such as Sarah Silverman, Katy Perry, Meryl Streep, and of course, Kathy Griffin have attempted to make a critical impact in the minds of impressionable fans both young and old.
Naturally, this would lead one to question why the political voices of celebrities matter in our society and how greatly their advocacy may bolster certain candidates. For one, the strongest argument states that a celebrity has no business dappling in politics by sharing certain opinions or even publicly stating their affiliated party. In other words, one wouldn't hire a chef to do the work of a doctor. So why would citizens take into account the political stance of their favorite celebrities when considering who to vote for? One should hope that most do not. However, this does not change the fact that many of these celebrities assume we wish to know and value their opinions no matter their professional relevance. On the contrary, Kevin Hart spoke out in an interview with Variety about where he stands on the issue stating that "when you jump into that political realm, you're alienating some of your audience."
Several celebrities along with Hart have stirred the pot stating that their political opinion is to not exercise fame and stardom in an attempt to forge a society for all people when they are accustomed to nothing short of a life of privilege. Mark Wahlberg supported this in his interview with Task & Purpose saying that celebrities are "pretty out of touch with the common person, the everyday guy out there providing for their family." Other stars acknowledging their role as sole entertainers include: Billy Joel, Gene Simmons, Reba McEntire, Josh Duhamel, and Gillian Anderson.
In response to those who will claim that certain conservative individuals who are reluctant to listen to the opinions of celebrities are the very people who voted for a former reality television star, they are surely mistaken. I will add that there will also be those who question how this same group of people feel about having a previous model as their first lady. First of all, it is debatable as to whether President Trump could truly be categorized as a former entertainer. However, he was an undeniably successful businessman and one of, if not the only celebrity that had a fighting chance at becoming president. Secondly, Trump supporters did not vote for a first lady. They elected a president, commander in chief, policymaker, leader, and doer. The nature of the first lady's prior occupation is irrelevant to running a country apart from representing an unconventional aspect separating Melania Trump from the women who served before her in the past.
Ultimately, it may be more entertaining for the average citizen who does not possess a wide interest in such things as politics and world events to be informed by celebrities. Thus, this would explain why celebrities taking advantage of their generous platforms have found it beneficial to continue doing so. So long as their actions are reinforced by a certain number of viewers, the media, and societal attention, it is unlikely that stars will gradually learn to remain seated quietly at their rightful place in the entertainment industry.