John Legend recently expressed his admiration for Taylor Swift, particularly for her willingness to speak out on political issues despite the risks involved. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Legend praised Swift for her courage in endorsing liberal and progressive candidates, a stance that contrasts with the more conservative leanings of much of the country music audience.
John Legend reflected on the challenges faced by Swift in making her political views known. “It was always really difficult for Taylor to speak out for liberal and progressive candidates coming from the country music world, where the fanbase is a lot more conservative,” Legend stated. He highlighted the personal risk Swift took by vocalizing her support for political figures and issues that diverged from the prevailing sentiments in her industry.
Legend particularly lauded Swift’s announcement on Instagram backing Kamala Harris. Swift wrote, “I’m voting for [Kamala Harris] because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos.” Legend described Swift’s statement as “the perfect statement,” reflecting her thoughtful and deliberate approach to political endorsement.
John Legend also voiced his support for Kamala Harris, asserting that she would be a commendable choice for the next President of the United States. He praised Harris for her intelligence, understanding of American issues, and her proposed solutions. According to Legend, Harris embodies qualities of a strong leader that are crucial for addressing the country’s challenges. He contrasted this with his views on Donald Trump, whom he described as “utterly toxic, unqualified and was manifestly terrible at his job.”
In addition to his comments on political endorsements, Legend addressed the broader issue of gender double standards. During an interview with The Independent, he discussed the scrutiny faced by women in public roles, drawing on his observations of his wife, Chrissy Teigen. Legend pointed out the disproportionate criticism that women receive, particularly those in the public eye.
“It’s abundantly clear to me, from my observation of what happens with Chrissy, that it’s harder to be a woman in public than it is to be a man,” Legend remarked. He highlighted the differences in the way women, such as those running for office or leading companies, are treated compared to their male counterparts. He emphasized his hope for a societal shift towards more equitable treatment of women, acknowledging the ongoing challenges and biases they face.
John Legend’s comments shed light on his respect for Taylor Swift’s political courage and his support for Kamala Harris as a presidential candidate. Moreover, his reflections on gender double standards underscore the broader societal issues affecting women in public life. Legend’s insights contribute to ongoing discussions about political bravery and the need for a more equitable society.