Topline

Pop singer Chappell Roan, who shot to fame this year, canceled upcoming performances at the ‘All Things Go’ festivals in New York and Washington DC to ‘prioritize my health’, days after facing backlash for her comments in which she criticized both political parties. and her initial refusal to support Vice President Kamala Harris.

Key facts

What did Chappell Roan say about Harris?

Roan (whose real name is Kayleigh Rose Amstutz) has made several statements in recent weeks criticizing the government and both political parties, largely for her pro-Palestinian views and advocacy for transgender rights. She told Rolling Stone earlier this month that she “doesn’t have a side because I hate both sides” and that she’s “so ashamed of everything that’s happening right now.” She doubled down last week, telling The Guardian that she doesn’t feel “pressured to support anyone” because “there are issues on both sides.” After criticism from Democrats, who compared her unfavorably to the straightforward Harris endorsements of fellow pop stars Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish, Roan clarified her views in two TikTok videos this week. On Tuesday, Roan posted a video urging followers to “use critical thinking skills” and saying it is “important to question authority and world leaders,” clarifying that she would not vote for Trump but did not say whether she would Harris would vote. In another video posted Wednesday, Roan said she would vote for Harris, but made it clear she would not fully support her because she disagrees with some of Harris’ positions, and reiterated her positions on Gaza and the rights of transgenders. Roan did not specify which of Harris’ positions on trans rights she opposed, but she previously told Rolling Stone that she disagreed with a White House statement to the New York Times opposing gender-affirming surgeries for minors — though the White House has reportedly clarified this. weeks later, it will “continue to fight state and national bans on gender-affirming care” but believes surgeries should be reserved for adults.

Crucial quote

“Yes, one is clearly better than the other,” Roan said, adding, “I hope you don’t settle for what we have.”

Main critics

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg addressed Roan’s comments on political commentator Tim Miller’s Bulwark Podcast, saying he is “all for people doing their research” but said there is “a super clear choice” between the presidential candidates with regarding their positions on LGBTQ+ rights. Transgender rights advocate Charlotte Clymer said Roan’s hesitation to support Harris is an “excessively privileged position to be in,” arguing that Harris would only win with the support of volunteers and voters.

In return for

“I think it is good to make concessions to your elected representatives. its democracy,” left-wing political commentator and Twitch streamer Hasan Piker posted on PRESIDENT of our COUNTRY as the PROGRESSIVE option is seen as an immediate, unwavering support of Trump… you all can’t actually be that stupid.” The Democratic Socialists of America offered “solidarity” to Roan for refusing to “look the other way” at Gaza.

Surprising fact

Roan, who is a lesbian and has said much of her artistry is inspired by drag performers, previously turned down an offer to perform at the White House during Pride Month, telling Rolling Stone, “I’m not going to the White House because I’m not going to be a monkey for Pride.” Roan said she considered reading poems by Palestinian women, but decided against it for safety reasons.

Important background

Roan has also indicated in recent weeks that she felt pressure due to her rapid fame. She rose to prominence earlier this year after an opening slot on Olivia Rodrigo’s tour, a string of successful music festival appearances, including what is estimated to be the biggest Lollapalooza set of all time, and a slew of hits including “Good Luck, Babe!” and “Hot to go!” Roan has complained about alleged stalkers and harassers in multiple interviews and social media posts, stating, “I’m allowed to say no to creepy behavior.” She spoke about her struggles with her newfound fame on stage in June, telling fans: “I’m just feeling a little off today because I think my career is just going really fast and it’s really hard to keep up .”

Read more

Chappell Roan on Why She Turned Down the White House Invitation: ‘I Won’t Be a Monkey for Pride’ (Rolling Stone)

Chappell Roan Reveals She’s Voting for Kamala Harris After Online Backlash (NBC News)

‘Fame is like going through puberty’: Chappell Roan on sexuality, superstars and the joy of drag (The Guardian)