Basketball SUPERSTAR LeBron James threw his support behind presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday night, emphasizing his “clear choice” just days before Election Day.
Sharing a video with footage of former President Donald Trump’s offensive remarks, the Los Angeles Lakers player said in a post on X: “What are we talking about here?? When I think about my children and my family and how they will grow up, this choice is clear to me. VOTE KAMALA HARRIS!!!”
The video features clips of Trump’s derogatory remarks over the years, including the former president’s warning that the country would end up “like Detroit” if Harris is elected and saying undocumented immigrants “poison the blood of our country.” The video closes with the written words: “Hatred brings us back.”
James’ post marks the latest high-profile endorsement for Harris, who has received endorsements from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny and Arnold Schwarzenegger, among other celebrities.
James has previously supported Democratic candidates, including backing Hillary Clinton in 2016, and has been a vocal critic of Trump during his tenure.
James famously called the then-president a “bum” for revoking an invitation to fellow basketball player Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors to visit the White House. In 2020, he also ignored Trump’s criticism of athletes kneeling during the national anthem before games following the killing of George Floyd. He instead told voters at the time to “look at what kind of leadership we have at the top of our country” and encouraged them to go to the polls.
James was also actively involved in the last presidential election, founding More Than A Vote along with other athletes. The organization then recruited several thousand poll workers in majority-black precincts and helped Floridians who had difficulty paying the fees and fines associated with their felony convictions to register to vote.
After President Joe Biden’s 2020 victory, which James celebrated, his organization focused on a wave of GOP-led legislation aimed at limiting voter access and launched a campaign to mobilize Black voters in the polls in years without presidential and municipal elections .
As Election Day approaches, Harris and Trump’s campaigns are capitalizing on celebrity star appeal. Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre campaigned alongside Trump in Wisconsin on Wednesday, while Harris’ rally on Friday in Milwaukee will feature rappers Cardi B, GloRilla and Flo Milli. (CNN/Z-3)
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**Interview with Political Analyst on LeBron James’ Endorsement of Kamala Harris**
**Host:** Welcome to today’s segment where we discuss the latest developments in the political landscape. Joining us is political analyst, Dr. Lisa Reynolds. Dr. Reynolds, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Reynolds:** Thank you for having me!
**Host:** Let’s dive right into it. LeBron James publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris just days before Election Day, highlighting his concerns for his family’s future. What impact do you think this endorsement will have?
**Dr. Reynolds:** LeBron’s endorsement is significant, especially considering his influence as a cultural icon. He resonates with younger voters and those who follow him for his social activism. By framing this choice as a familial concern, he not only engages his fan base but also encourages them to think critically about the future they want.
**Host:** James included footage of former President Trump’s inflammatory remarks in his endorsement video. How does that strategy play out in today’s political context?
**Dr. Reynolds:** Highlighting Trump’s past comments allows LeBron to draw a clear contrast between the two candidates. It positions Harris as a candidate of empathy and understanding, especially in contrast to divisive rhetoric. This approach could galvanize voters who are tired of negativity and seek a more positive vision for the country.
**Host:** Kamala Harris has garnered several celebrity endorsements, from Beyoncé to Arnold Schwarzenegger. How do these endorsements collectively influence public opinion?
**Dr. Reynolds:** Celebrity endorsements can significantly sway public opinion, particularly among younger demographics who may feel disconnected from traditional political discourse. When multiple high-profile figures rally behind a candidate, it creates a sense of momentum and can help legitimize that individual’s campaign in the eyes of voters.
**Host:** LeBron has been supportive of Democratic candidates in the past. How does his endorsement fit into his broader political engagement?
**Dr. Reynolds:** LeBron has consistently used his platform to advocate for social justice and political change. His endorsement of Harris indicates that he remains committed to these causes, reinforcing the message that sports figures can be powerful advocates for political issues. This kind of engagement encourages fans and followers to consider their own roles in the democratic process.
**Host:** In closing, what should we expect moving forward in the final days leading up to the election?
**Dr. Reynolds:** We can expect a surge in endorsements and mobilization efforts. With influential voices like LeBron James advocating for Harris, it could energize her supporters while potentially swaying undecided voters. Ultimately, this election’s outcome could hinge on how effectively both campaigns engage their bases in these final moments.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Reynolds, for your insights. It will be interesting to see how everything unfolds as we approach Election Day!
**Dr. Reynolds:** Thank you for having me!
