In a fiery late-night Truth Social post early Monday, former President Donald Trump called for a “major investigation” into Vice President Kamala Harris’ celebrity endorsements, accusing her campaign of using entertainment contracts to mask improper payments.
Trump’s 1:34 a.m. ET post accused Harris of engaging in a “very expensive and desperate effort to artificially build up her sparse crowds,” naming celebrities such as Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and U2’s Bono. “IT’S NOT LEGAL!” Trump wrote, claiming the performers were part of a “CORRUPT & UNLAWFUL” scheme to sway public opinion.
The post comes after a week of similar attacks, with Trump lashing out at several entertainers who have publicly supported Harris. Springsteen, in particular, recently described Trump as “corrupt” and “treasonous” during a concert.
While Harris’ campaign has drawn significant star power, claims of improper payments remain unproven. Campaign finance records reviewed by USA Today show Harris’ team paid $1 million to Oprah Winfrey’s Harpo Productions for a televised town hall, and $165,000 to Beyoncé’s production company. However, both parties deny any personal payments were made.
A spokesperson for Winfrey said she received no “personal fee,” and Tina Knowles, Beyoncé’s mother, stated her daughter “did not receive a penny” for appearing at a Harris rally in Texas.
Adrienne Elrod, a senior advisor on Harris’ campaign, reiterated that no artists were paid for their endorsements. “We have never paid any artist and performer. We have never paid a fee to that person,” Elrod told Deadline. She noted, however, that the campaign was required to cover certain production costs, as mandated by federal campaign finance laws.
Despite Trump’s criticisms, he too has drawn celebrity support — including from Kid Rock, who performed at the Republican National Convention.
As the campaign season heats up, Trump’s attacks on Harris’ Hollywood ties appear aimed at raising questions about the legitimacy of her support — even as his own campaign courts endorsements of its own.
