LeBron James’ Endorsement: Why the King’s Support for a Presidential Candidate is Significant
Though LeBron James is noted as the all-time leading scorer in basketball, his exceptional court vision has often been celebrated even more. Ranking fourth in NBA history for assists and holding the top spot for Team USA, James has also showcased his playmaking skills this summer, leading his squad in assists at nearly nine per game during the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, the focus now is shifting to a different kind of impact he’s making: his endorsement of a presidential candidate.
Celebrity endorsements have been part of the political landscape for nearly a century. For example, in 1920, entertainer Al Jolson recorded a song supporting Warren G. Harding, and a few years later, endorsed Calvin Coolidge. However, these early endorsements were often more about commercial interests than genuine political support.
Today’s celebrity endorsements differ significantly from those early days. Over the years, prominent figures like Jackie Robinson, Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Belafonte, Wilt Chamberlain, James Brown, Sammy Davis Jr., and Muhammad Ali have lent their support to various presidents and candidates, from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan. The presence of well-known personalities can enhance a candidate’s visibility and appeal to diverse communities.
Recently, Steve Kerr, coach of the Golden State Warriors and Team USA, made headlines at the Democratic National Convention by using Stephen Curry’s signature gesture to signal his disapproval of Donald Trump. This act not only drew a significant reaction from the crowd but also went viral on social media.
LeBron James, a prominent public figure for over two-thirds of his life, has had a similarly impactful presence in political and social discourse. His endorsement carries substantial weight due to his status and influence. CNN political analyst Bakari Sellers compares James’ endorsement to that of historic figures like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Muhammad Ali, highlighting the respect he commands because of his athletic achievements and public persona.
Christina Myers, a professor at Michigan State University, notes that while James’ endorsement doesn’t guarantee votes, it signals alignment with his values, potentially broadening a candidate’s appeal to groups who admire James.
James’ political awareness began to grow significantly around the 2008 election. He supported Barack Obama, both publicly and financially, and his relationship with Obama strengthened over the years. James has continued to engage in political activism, from endorsing Hillary Clinton in 2016 to supporting Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in 2020. This year, he has yet to make an endorsement, but past tensions with Donald Trump suggest he is unlikely to support Trump.
James’ criticism of Trump, including a notable Twitter feud in 2017, reflects a broader disdain for Trump’s approach. Sellers points out that James’ opposition helps mobilize certain voter demographics, particularly Black communities, against Trump’s tactics.
In 2020, James co-founded the More Than a Vote initiative to boost Black voter turnout, and this year, the focus has shifted to women’s reproductive rights under new leadership. This strategic transition highlights James’ commitment to impactful activism.
As James approaches his 40th birthday, his basketball career is in its later stages, but his political influence remains strong. His actions continue to challenge the notion of “shut up and dribble” and contribute to a broader legacy of activism.
The coming weeks will reveal how James will further engage in political discourse, but his track record suggests he will remain a significant voice. Myers underscores the importance of James using his platform for change, emphasizing the broader societal impact of his activism.
