Chappell Roan’s ‘Both Sides’ Non-Endorsement Divides the Internet

Chappell Roan’s ‘Both Sides’ Non-Endorsement Divides the Internet

As a seasoned film enthusiast with a knack for deciphering the complexities of human nature through the lens of popular culture, I find myself utterly fascinated by the enigmatic figure that is Chappell Roan. Her refusal to align herself with either political party in this tumultuous election cycle is not only refreshing but also reminiscent of the non-conformist characters I adore in independent cinema.


The presidential campaign of Kamala Harris has earned the backing of various popular musicians, with Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish being the latest to endorse her as Vice President and Democratic candidate. However, a well-known musician who is known for her feminist songs and “Midwest Princess” image, which the meme-friendly Harris campaign has embraced, has declined to join their ranks.

26-year-old Chappell Roan, known for her song “Good Luck, Babe!”, hailing from Missouri, shared in an interview with The Guardian (published on Friday) that she doesn’t intend to support any candidate prior to the November election, expressing concerns about issues on both political sides.

The comment has sparked varying opinions among social media users. While some people admire her position, others have labeled it as cowardly and accused her of making false comparisons. They argue that she didn’t strongly support the LGBT community when facing off against Trump’s openly hostile stance towards the queer community during his presidency.

Roan expressed concerns about multiple aspects of our current government to The Guardian, stating, “There are numerous areas where I see room for improvement. Consequently, I’m not inclined to endorse anyone at this time. There seem to be issues on both sides, so I urge people to exercise their critical thinking abilities, cast their votes based on local concerns, and support what’s best for their city.

The Harris campaign has not been hesitant about associating itself with Roan’s widespread appeal. In July, shortly after President Joe Biden withdrew from the presidential race and Harris became the Democratic nominee, the campaign shared on social media a snippet of Roan’s 2023 song “Femininomenon.” Moreover, in August, following Harris’ announcement of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, the campaign started marketing a camouflage hat inspired by Roan’s “Midwest Princess” merchandise.

🤭

— Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) July 24, 2024

is this real

— Chappell Roan (@ChappellRoan) August 7, 2024

As a movie enthusiast, it’s not entirely unexpected that Roan withheld her endorsement, given her history of advocacy. She’s renowned for championing the LGBTQ+ community through her music and performances, and for raising funds for Palestinian aid. Consistently, she’s made political stands that differ from the Biden-Harris administration, notably on matters like transgender rights and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

At the Governors Ball held in New York City in June 2024, Roan announced that she had chosen not to participate in the White House’s Pride celebrations. “We strive for liberty, justice, and freedom for everyone,” she stated. “When that happens, then I will join.” Wearing a costume reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty on stage, Roan quoted Emma Lazarus’ poem engraved on the monument: “Yet remember, as you gaze upon my feet, the words inscribed there: ‘Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free,'” she said. “This symbolizes the fight for trans rights, women’s rights, and freedom for all oppressed people living under occupation.

Chappell Roan’s ‘Both Sides’ Non-Endorsement Divides the Internet

At a later conversation with Rolling Stone, Roan made it clear she had no intention of becoming a participant in Pride celebrations, expressing her political viewpoint as “I’m attractive, ‘I dislike the government, and I dislike everything that’s happening currently.’ I don’t align myself with any side because I detest both, and I’m deeply ashamed by the current state of affairs.

Despite Roan’s recent decision not to endorse anyone, this move has sparked a wave of criticism on social media. A popular post on X with 4 million views reads, “Got it, she’s a Republican.” Another user commented, “It doesn’t make sense to borrow from drag culture and express your identity, then support a party that could outlaw our freedom, does it?” Yet another expressed frustration about Roan’s inconsistency: “Roan Chappell seems to be both an enlightened voice and a frustratingly ignorant oddball at times, a phenomenon worth studying.” Lastly, one user lamented the challenge of appealing to both leftist fans and conservative family without coming off as foolish.

As a movie enthusiast, I find myself echoing the sentiments shared about Chappell Roan’s reluctance in endorsing Harris. It’s been pointed out that given her vocal support for Palestine, it might seem odd for some that she’s not seen as a closet Republican due to her refusal to endorse Harris. However, we should remember that this Gen Z star has only been in the limelight for less than a year, and perhaps she’s hesitant to align with neoliberals.

Roan expressed her thoughts to Rolling Stone in this manner: “It’s not about hating one and loving the other; it’s more complex than that.” She also emphasized that she’s not encouraging people to disengage, but rather, “Now more than ever, it’s crucial to exercise your vote.” She further stated her commitment to safeguarding civil rights, particularly those of the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, she expressed gratitude for living during a significant historical era when a woman of color is a presidential nominee.

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2024-09-23 12:06

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