Hip Hop Fans React to Rappers Endorsing Politicians During the 2020 Presidential Election

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Rappers such as Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, Lil Pump and more have endorsed politician candidates for the upcoming 2020 elections. This has caused many rappers to trend on Twitter and cause controversy over Hip-Hop in politics.

“In my opinion a lot of them(rappers) are doing this out of self-interest,” said Rapper Miesh during a phone interview.

“Hip Hop used to really be one of the biggest vocal platforms of advocacy,” said local activist Vaun Mayes.

Lil Wayne, Waka Flocka, 50 Cent, Lil Pump, Asian Doll and 6ix9ine are the most popular rappers that have endorsed Donald Trump. Diddy, 2 Chainz, Common, Offset, Cardi B and Eminem are the most popular rappers that endorsed Joe Biden.

“Some people believe that these people are just rappers and other actually believe in what they say,” said Mayes.

“You’ve never heard from Lil Pump for a few years, now he’s endorsing Trump,” Said rapper Miesh.

Rappers endorsing political candidates has started conversation on politicians pandering to gain votes from the Black community.

“Hip Hop does dictate the African American community. For example, you have kids who wear chains and go out to buy things they can’t afford,” said the Chicago native Miesha. “No matter the race, Hip-Hop dictates live but it all comes back to the Black community.”

There’s also been influential rappers making political views themselves, like Kanye West Running for President and Ice Cube introducing the Contract with Black America.

West announced himself running for office in July 2020 with self-titled party named birthday party. He collected about 60,000 votes and was on the ballot in 12 states.

“Kanye actually stated some facts that make sense whether you like him or not,” said Miesh.

West’s presidential plan includes coronavirus safety, ending police brutality, ending the death penalty and more.

“Him running doesn’t make sense,” said Milwaukee native Mayes. “I can’t get with Kanye Presidency; unless he goes back to what he used to do.”

Rapper, activist and actor Ice Cube introduced the Contract with Black America in early July. The contract discusses 13 ways to improve Black America with bank lending, police reform and more.

“I don’t leave it up to rap artist to come up with any plan to a campaign representing me and the people,” Said Mayes.

“I feel like it (endorsing politicians) is okay if it’s genuine but if it’s for economic gain, then it’s an ill minded thing,” Said Meish. “Those votes matter.”