Trump Accuses Celebrities of Being Paid to Endorse Harris — Offers No Evidence

Trump Accuses Celebrities of Being Paid to Endorse Harris — Offers No Evidence

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In the early hours of Monday, former President Donald Trump accused celebrities, including Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Bruce Springsteen, of being paid to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris. Posting on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump claimed these endorsements were illegal campaign contributions. The celebrities and Harris’s campaign denied the accusations, which experts say lack evidence and do not indicate any legal wrongdoing.

Trump’s Allegations Against Celebrities

Donald Trump’s social media tirade began shortly after 1:30 a.m. Monday. He questioned whether Bruce Springsteen received money for publicly supporting Vice President Kamala Harris, calling it an illegal campaign contribution. Trump also implicated Oprah Winfrey and Bono in what he described as a broader payment scheme.

By the morning, Trump expanded his claims. He alleged that Beyoncé accepted $11 million to appear at a Harris rally — without performing. Trump wrote in capital letters, calling it a “criminal scam” and demanding investigations into what he said were disguised payments to boost Harris’s campaign.

No Evidence of Illegal Payments

Trump’s claims were not supported by evidence. Both the Harris campaign and the celebrities involved have denied receiving payments for endorsements.

According to the Federal Election Commission (FEC), campaigns may pay for event services such as performances or production costs as long as these expenses are transparently reported. Paying for endorsements is not illegal if payments are clearly disclosed.

Campaign financial records show that Oprah’s company, Harpo, received $1 million to produce a campaign town hall event. Beyoncé’s team was paid $165,000 for logistical support. Neither payment was for personal endorsements.

Celebrity Responses Denying Payments

Oprah Winfrey took to Instagram to clarify she “was not paid a dime” to support Harris. She explained that the money went toward staff salaries, set design, and technical crews for the event.

Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, also responded. She confirmed that Beyoncé was not paid for the endorsement and covered her own travel and styling costs.

Trump’s Escalating Feuds with Celebrities

Trump’s recent attacks on celebrities supporting Harris contrast with his past courting of star endorsements. After Springsteen publicly criticized him, Trump called the musician a “dried out prune.” He also mocked singer Taylor Swift, sarcastically suggesting her popularity declined after he said he disliked her.

Some legal experts express concern about Trump’s use of federal agencies to target critics. Observers say he risks turning the Justice Department into a tool for personal vendettas.

No Indications of Legal Violations

Despite Trump’s demands for investigations, no signs of legal violations have emerged regarding the Harris campaign or the celebrities involved.

Trump’s unsubstantiated claims against high-profile entertainers have fueled controversy but lack factual support or legal basis. As political tensions rise, experts emphasize the importance of transparency and evidence in campaign finance matters.