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In the latest chapter of political endorsements with a conspiratorial edge, the recent wave of celebrity support for Kamala Harris’ 2024 campaign is raising eyebrows — and not just because of their passion for progressive values. With high-profile figures like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez and Taylor Swift rallying behind the vice president, the timing is curious, given music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs’ increasingly notorious legal troubles.

Diddy, whose name is ubiquitous in celebrity culture, has found himself embroiled in allegations ranging from sexual assault to sex trafficking, allegations that have sparked federal investigations and prosecutions. Some of his alleged activities allegedly occurred at star-studded parties that some of these same celebrities attended. While these stars may simply be expressing their true political beliefs, the timing has led to rumors that perhaps their support for Harris carried a little more… personal motivation.

And with the looming power of a presidential pardon (or at least a gentler hand from the government), it’s no surprise that people are talking. Let’s take a look at why some of these celebrities might be feeling particularly generous toward Kamala Harris and why conspiracy theorists are having a field day.

Diddy’s star-studded lineup behind Harris includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Degeneres, Martha Stewart, Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck, Oprah Winfrey, and more.

The Diddy drama in depth

Diddy’s empire, once glittering with Grammys and glitzy parties, is now cast in a much darker shadow. Legal filings filed by his former associate, Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones, accuse Diddy of everything from abuse to hosting “freak-off” parties populated by A-list guests. Although many names appear in Jones’ documents, he describes an atmosphere in which the powerful played – knowingly or not – a role in his alleged network of illegal behavior.

Among the circles Diddy frequented were some of today’s most vocal Harris supporters. These stars may not be guilty by association, but it’s not a stretch to imagine that many of them don’t want to be called to the witness stand either. Could a little support from Harris, given her status as vice president and potential future president, help add a buffer against what could be tricky legal situations?

Beyoncé and J.Lo: from stage stars to women Harris Hype

Take Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez, two high-profile artists who some conspiracy theorists believe may be hedging their bets. Both have ties to Diddy through the music industry and have shared appearances over the years. They are high-profile enough to wield influence, and both have recently come out in support of Harris. But it’s the timing of their support that has people talking.

Just weeks after Diddy was arrested based on a series of serious allegations, they and others like them hit social media with massive support for Harris. Now, we’re not saying they’re trying to avoid a subpoena by showing a little Democratic loyalty, but that’s a question some members of the public (and Trump Jr.) are more than happy to ask to lift.

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Taylor Swift and the strange case of political realignment

Taylor Swift also came out for Harris, marking a change for the previously politically shy pop star. Known for being meticulous about her image and brand alignment, her timing has also fueled the theory that it is a strategic move for self-preservation. As Swifties know, Taylor is particularly wary of controversies that could potentially damage her reputation.

And given the ‘Diddy List’ rumor that some celebrities who once partied at her mansion may face increased scrutiny, could Swift proactively position herself as a visible ally to Harris to avoid any fallout of guilt by association? Again, no one says it openly, but in politics and Hollywood, optics mean everything.

What if a presidential pardon was the real price?

Of course, endorsements for Harris may be exactly what they seem: genuine support for a progressive agenda and a historic candidate. But if Harris were to win and then wield the power of the presidential pardon, it wouldn’t hurt for some stars to be in her good graces.

After all, Hollywood has long known how to play the long game, and with Harris’ history as a prosecutor and her potential access to executive clemency, a few supportive tweets now could pay off big in the future if things will go from bad to worse in the future. The Diddy affair.