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Hollywood’s shrinking political power exposed as embarrassed Dems shun A-listers: ‘A repudiation’
Democratic candidates kept their Los Angeles fundraising visits low-profile during the midterms, asking attendees not to post photos and seeking less media coverage. The article argues that Hollywood’s influence in national politics has diminished, and that Democrats’ strong election results without prominent celebrity campaigning may reinforce that shift.
Several candidates, including Jon Ossoff, James Talarico and Sherrod Brown, held smaller events that were deliberately kept out of the spotlight. Political figures and donors cited backlash against the image of Democrats as coastal elites, as well as disillusionment after Joe Biden’s 2024 campaign, as reasons for Hollywood’s retreat. The article also suggests Silicon Valley executives may face questions about their visible support for Donald Trump.
In short
- Democratic fundraisers in Los Angeles were kept discreet.
- Hollywood celebrities played little visible role in the midterms.
- Democrats’ success may reinforce a shift away from celebrity politics.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Keeping celebrity fundraising low-profile can help candidates avoid reinforcing an image of Democrats as wealthy coastal elites and keep attention on voters and policy. Strong results without prominent celebrity campaigning may suggest that campaigns can build broader appeal by relying less on famous endorsers and high-profile donor events.
The case against
Celebrity support can bring money, attention and organising capacity to campaigns, and private fundraising may still matter even when it is kept out of public view. Treating the retreat as proof that Hollywood has lost political influence may overread a tactical response to backlash or donor disillusionment; candidates can seek wider appeal while still benefiting from prominent supporters.