Street Cred and Star Cred: Bernie Sanders’ Celebrity Endorsements Could Provide Big Boost

Though Hillary Clinton has locked up the endorsements of virtually every elected Democrat in the country, progressive phenom Bernie Sanders is winning the backing of America’s cultural heroes.  In an open letter, 126 noteworthy celebrities have endorsed the populist U.S. Senator (I-VT) for president, including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, activist doctor Hunter “Patch” Adams, composer Hans Zimmer, and actors and producers like Will Ferrell and Danny DeVito.  These celebrities, who must appeal to the public just like elected politicians, if not more so, add some extra oomph to Sanders’ surging campaign.

Bernie Sanders needs to increase his public exposure.  While his status among political aficionados has soared, most of the public spends far less time following the punditry.  Sanders, unfortunately, is still a relative unknown among a large swath of America, particularly among blacks and Hispanics.  Minority voters have far more experience with Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton, both due to her husband, two-term president Bill Clinton, and her own 2008 presidential campaign.  As a result, millions of voters may cast their ballots for Clinton during the primaries based on name recognition and tepid acceptance alone…despite the fact that Bernie Sanders far better represents their interests.

Hillary Clinton is a known quantity.  Though relatively few voters are excited about Clinton, especially in comparison with the exuberant, record-setting crowds turning out to see Bernie Sanders, they may feel that it is better to not take a risk.  In a rather anti-competitive, and thus anti-American, fashion, Clinton stands to win countless votes by default.

But if the public knew more about Sanders, his surge in the polls would undoubtedly grow.  Celebrity endorsements and activism could be key in accomplishing this.  Although many voters may not care about political blogs or talk shows, they may find their attention piqued by celebrity endorsements of candidates.  Celebrity blog posts, interviews, and appearances at Bernie Sanders rallies could generate lots of interest-piquing news coverage.

Since Clinton has been active in trying to secure Congressional endorsements, Sanders’ camp should not by shy in encouraging celebrities to vocally champion their own support of Bernie Sanders.  Those who want to see Bernie Sanders in the White House should say it loud and proud.  Name recognition and public exposure is the name of the game, and every little bit helps!

Bernie 2016.