Topline

Pop singer Chappell Roan, who quickly rose to fame this year, canceled upcoming performances at the “All Things Go” festivals in New York and Washington, DC, days after she faced backlash for her criticism of both political parties to “prioritize my health.” and her initial refusal to support Vice President Kamala Harris.

Important facts

What did Chappell Roan say about Harris?

Roan (real name Kayleigh Rose Amstutz) has made several statements in recent weeks criticizing the government and both political parties, particularly for her pro-Palestinian views and her advocacy for transgender rights. Earlier this month, she told Rolling Stone that she “doesn’t have a side because I hate both sides” and that she’s “so embarrassed by everything that’s happening right now.” Last week she doubled down on her statement, telling the Guardian she didn’t feel “pressured to support anyone” because “there are issues on both sides.” Following criticism from Democrats who negatively compared her to the outspoken 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 her followers to “use critical thinking skills” and said it was “important to question authority and world leaders.” She made it clear that she would not vote for Trump but did not say whether she would vote for Harris. In another video posted on Wednesday, Roan said she would vote for Harris, but made clear that she would not fully support her as she disagreed with some of Harris’ positions and reiterated her views on Gaza and transgender rights . Roan did not specify which of Harris’ views on trans rights she opposed, but previously told Rolling Stone that she disagreed with a White House statement to the New York Times opposing gender-affirming views surgeries on minors – although the White House reportedly clarified weeks later that 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 obviously better than the other,” Roan said, adding, “I hope you don’t settle for what we have.”

Main critic

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

Cons

“I think it’s good to make concessions to the elected representatives. his democracy,” left-wing political commentator and Twitch streamer Hasan Piker posted on The PRESIDENT of our COUNTRY as a PROGRESSIVE option is seen as immediate, unwavering support of Trump…You actually can’t be that stupid.” The Democratic Socialists of America offered Roan “Solidarity because he refused to “look the other way” in Gaza.

Surprising fact

Roan, who is lesbian and says much of her art 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 won’t be a monkey for Pride.” Roan said she thought about reading poetry by Palestinian women but decided against it for safety reasons.

Important background

Roan has also spoken in recent weeks about feeling pressured by her rapid rise to fame. She rose to fame earlier this year with an opening slot on Olivia Rodrigo’s tour, a string of successful music festival appearances, including what officials estimate was the biggest Lollapalooza set of all time, and a string of hits including “Good Luck, Babe!” and ” Hot to Go!” Roan has complained about alleged stalkers and harassers in several interviews and social media posts, stating, “I’m allowed to say no to creepy behavior.” She spoke on stage in June about the battle with her new boyfriend Fame and told fans: “I’m just feeling a little uncomfortable today because I think my career is just moving really fast and it’s really hard to keep up.”

Further reading

Chappell Roan on Why She Declined 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 puberty”: Chappell Roan on sexuality, superstardom and the joy of drag (The Guardian)