New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul, a self-professed Taylor Swift fan, believes that the pop singer’s influence can help her bridge the gap with younger voters. The governor has not only quoted Swift’s lyrics in political contexts, but also used Swift’s chart-topping song “Welcome to New York” during a key legislative speech.
Tuning Into Taylor Swift’s Appeal
When Swift launched her new album “The Tortured Poets Department,” Governor Hochul made time in her schedule to listen, later acknowledging her fondness for the track “So Long, London.” The governor’s public adoration for Swift’s music mirrors a long-standing trend among politicians who often align themselves with popular musicians to resonate with their voter base.
The notion of politicians showing their preference for certain musicians isn’t a new phenomenon. Consider former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s public camaraderie with Billy Joel or former President Barack Obama’s fondness for artists like Stevie Wonder and Bruce Springsteen. According to Democratic political consultant Hank Sheinkopf, aligning with Swift helps the governor connect with younger voters who have previously appeared reluctant about her administration.
Targeting Younger Voters
Survey data from Siena College reveals that only 41% of New Yorkers aged 18-34 approved of Hochul’s performance. Therein lies the importance of this musical connection, as engaging with a fan-beloved musician like Swift could help the governor tap into a wider demographic of younger voters.
Democratic strategist Chris Coffey asserts, “She understands the nature of gossip and entertainment in American politics and talking about Taylor Swift gets younger people to pay attention.” Coffey adds, “Taylor Swift’s lyrics are the lyrics of that entire generation overall, and those are the people she needs.”
Leveraging Celebrity Influence to Engage the Masses
By referencing Swift, Governor Hochul also makes the intricacies of state government appear more relatable and accessible. As Coffey explains, “It’s speaking a language that people understand.”
Likewise, Governor Hochul finds similarities in Swift’s experiences as she trades the recording studio for the political stage, furthering her drive to resonate with the singer’s broad fan base.
Swift, known for her poetic songs about personal experiences, could provide Hochul with the advantage she seeks to combat gendered criticisms, especially those critiquing her cautious political approach.
Building Political Traction Ahead of 2024 Elections
Despite a sluggish response to Republican competitor Lee Zeldin’s crime-focused campaign, Governor Hochul showcases her determination by embracing a national role leading up to the midterms. This isn’t just about the governor; her political brand plays a significant part in her political trajectory.
Hochul’s intended role as one of President Biden’s top campaign surrogates means aligning herself with a popular musician might amplify her political outreach, especially if she aims to reclaim New York House districts lost by the Democrats in 2022.
Sheinkopf concludes, “It’s about young people. It’s about voters. It’s about message. It’s about making politics look less removed from the people.” The governor’s Swiftie status could just be the strategic move she needs to boost her appeal among younger constituents and alter the political landscape significantly.
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