NEW YORK, USA — Lifestyle icon Martha Stewart has officially endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, marking the first time she has publicly backed a candidate this cycle.
Stewart made the announcement during the 2024 Retail Influencer CEO Forum on Tuesday, stating her support for Harris because she wants a president “who doesn’t hate New York” and “doesn’t hate democracy.”
Stewart, 83, confirmed her support for Harris while speaking with Joanna Coles, Chief Creative and Content Officer for the Daily Beast, during the event. When asked if she would be watching the evening’s debate between Harris and Donald Trump, Stewart enthusiastically responded, “Oh, you bet,” before clarifying her political stance: “Kamala,” she said, making sure to emphasize the correct pronunciation of the vice president’s name.
Stewart’s History with Trump
Stewart’s endorsement of Harris continues a long-standing rift between her and Donald Trump. The two first clashed publicly in 2006 when they both hosted versions of The Apprentice on NBC.
After Stewart’s version of the show struggled in the ratings, she claimed Trump failed to honor a deal that would have had her “fire” him to clear the way for her show.
Trump responded by accusing her of lying, sparking a feud that has continued over the years.
Although Stewart supported Hillary Clinton in 2016, she softened her tone following Trump’s victory, calling him a “true entrepreneur” and expressing optimism about his time in office.
By 2020, Stewart remained silent on the election between Trump and Joe Biden, avoiding political endorsements and citing the potential impact on her audience.
Breaking Silence on Politics
Stewart’s decision to publicly endorse Harris in 2024 reflects a significant shift from her stance in 2020 when she dodged questions about the presidential race.
At the time, she expressed concerns about alienating half of her audience, telling The New York Times, “It’s difficult. That’s my answer to that.”
This time, however, Stewart didn’t hold back when asked about her preferred candidate. Although she acknowledged the risks of discussing politics, she confirmed her support for Harris, while also hinting that she might not speak further on the subject.
“I’m not allowed to talk [about politics],” she said, adding that her parent company discourages her from discussing politics publicly.
A Complicated Political Journey
Stewart’s political journey has been marked by a complicated relationship with public figures and a balancing act between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities.
After her 2005 release from prison following a conviction for insider trading, Stewart resumed her role as a media mogul and lifestyle expert.
Despite her prior support for Trump as an entrepreneur, she has now made it clear where she stands in the current political landscape.
Her endorsement of Kamala Harris adds another high-profile name to the list of public figures backing the vice president, as the 2024 race continues to heat up.
