Hollywood is buzzing with anxiety as the presidential election approaches, especially with the tight race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. According to a recent report from Deadline, the prospect of Trump reclaiming the White House is creating palpable tension among industry insiders.
Many in Hollywood fear that Harris is falling short in her campaign strategy. A public relations executive expressed concern that her team isn’t making sufficient headway against the Trump campaign, stating, “The election should have been a clear victory weeks ago, but it’s far too close in the battleground states.” This executive emphasized the need for Harris to decisively win these critical areas to secure the necessary electoral votes.
Polls show a neck-and-neck race, leaving pundits struggling to forecast a winner. Conversations among Hollywood elites have shifted from hopeful optimism to outright frustration, with Trump’s potential return becoming the focal point of discussions. Despite star power backing Harris, including appearances by Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez at rallies, insiders worry that these efforts may not be enough to close the gap.
One prominent Hollywood figure remarked that the endorsement of former President George W. Bush could significantly sway public opinion, suggesting that a simple condemnation of Trump from Bush could shift the dynamics of the race. The involvement of Bush’s daughter, Barbara, and former Congresswoman Liz Cheney also raises questions about the effectiveness of the current campaign strategy.
Critics within the industry have pointed out that Harris may have peaked too early in her campaign. One Emmy-winning filmmaker stated, “It feels like they’re just winging it.” Concerns about her choice of running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, were also raised, with suggestions that a more dynamic choice could have made a difference.
As the election nears, some wonder if Biden’s presence in the race is even beneficial. A Democratic donor questioned whether Biden could have regained momentum had he chosen to step aside. With Trump’s strong base remaining loyal, many in Hollywood are left contemplating the possible outcomes and the future of their political landscape.