Campaign 2016: Why Celebrity Endorsements Are More Important Than You Think

George Clooney, Katy Perry, Elton John and Leonardo DiCaprio are among the most sought-after names in politics these days — and there’s a good reason for that

celebrity endorsements
Graphic: Eric Hernandez

From George Clooney to Katy Perry, A-list celebrity endorsements have become one of the hottest commodities in this year’s presidential race. According to a tally by TheWrap, more than 200 big name Hollywood stars have come out in support of their favorite candidate this election cycle.

But just how much weight do these endorsements actually carry? Pundits and scholars argue that celebrity endorsements have no effect whatsoever when it comes to persuading voters one way or the other.

“Hollywood endorsements don’t move any votes,” Jack Pitney, professor of government at California’s Claremont McKenna College, told TheWrap.

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