Basketball icon LeBron James publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential campaign on Thursday evening, declaring that “the choice is clear” just days before Election Day.
In a post shared on X, James included a video montage featuring controversial remarks from former President Donald Trump. He stated, “What are we even talking about here?? When I think about my kids and my family and how they will grow up, the choice is clear to me. VOTE KAMALA HARRIS!!!”
The video showcased several of Trump’s derogatory comments over the years, including his warnings that the country would deteriorate “like Detroit” under Harris’s leadership and his inflammatory claims about undocumented immigrants “poisoning the blood of our country.” The clip concluded with the powerful message: “Hate takes us back.”
James’ endorsement adds to a growing list of high-profile supporters for Harris, who has also received backing from celebrities like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Known for his political activism, James has previously endorsed Democratic candidates, including Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election, and has been a vocal critic of Trump throughout his presidency.
In one notable instance, James referred to Trump as a “bum” after the then-president disinvited Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry from a White House visit. In 2020, following the killing of George Floyd, he dismissed Trump’s criticisms of athletes kneeling during the national anthem, instead urging voters to consider “the leadership we have at the top of our country” and encouraging them to vote.
James has also been heavily involved in promoting voter rights. He co-founded More Than A Vote, an organization dedicated to combating voter suppression, along with fellow athletes. The initiative successfully recruited thousands of poll workers in predominantly Black communities and assisted Floridians in resolving financial barriers related to felony convictions, enabling them to register to vote.
After President Joe Biden’s victory in 2020, which James celebrated, his organization shifted focus to countering a wave of GOP-led legislation aimed at restricting voter access. They launched campaigns to mobilize Black voters in local and off-year elections, emphasizing the importance of participation in the democratic process.
As Election Day approaches, both the Harris and Trump campaigns are leveraging celebrity influence to galvanize support. On Wednesday, retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre rallied with Trump in Wisconsin, while Harris’s upcoming event in Milwaukee is set to feature prominent rappers like Cardi B, GloRilla, and Flo Milli.
James’ endorsement not only highlights his commitment to political activism but also underscores the role of sports figures in shaping public discourse. His appeal to voters, particularly parents concerned about the future, resonates with many who are disillusioned by divisive rhetoric. By aligning himself with Harris, James aims to rally support for a candidate he believes represents a more inclusive and hopeful vision for the nation.
As the election nears, the significance of endorsements from influential figures like LeBron James cannot be overstated. They serve to energize the base, attract undecided voters, and emphasize the stakes of the upcoming election. With both campaigns intensifying their outreach efforts, the power of celebrity endorsements is likely to play a crucial role in the final days leading up to the polls.
In this charged political landscape, James’ call to action is a reminder of the responsibility voters have in shaping the country’s future. By advocating for Kamala Harris, he not only highlights the stark contrast between the candidates but also emphasizes the importance of values such as unity, respect, and progress—qualities that he believes are essential for the nation’s growth.