Taylor Swift Expresses Political Views at MTV VMAs: Singer Speaks Out Against White House on Equality Act while Accepting Video of the Year Award and Delivers Vibrant Rainbow Performance of “You Need To Relax”

Taylor Swift showcased her political activism at the MTV Video Music Awards by highlighting the White House’s disregard for her Equality Act petition. The 29-year-old singer, who previously expressed regret for not speaking out during the 2016 presidential election, kept her promise to be more involved in politics leading up to the 2020 election. She performed her LGBTQ+ anthem “You Need to Calm Down” in a politically charged manner, with visuals of the Equality Act displayed during the energetic rendition that included rainbows and drag queens. The song not only earned her the prestigious Video of the Year award but also the “Video for Good” accolade for raising awareness. During her acceptance speech for Video of the Year, she thanked those who signed the petition, stating that it had garnered half a million signatures—five times the required number for the White House to respond.

Called out: Taylor Swift who recently said she regrets remaining silent during the 2016 presidential election and vowed to be more active ahead of the 2020 election, made good on her promise during her triumphant night at the ceremonyW

Taylor Swift, who recently expressed her remorse for not speaking up during the 2016 presidential election, has followed through on her commitment to become more politically active leading up to the 2020 election. As evidence of her dedication, she playfully checked her watch to highlight the considerable time that had passed since the petition garnered a significant number of signatures. Notably, Swift was joined by her close friends and talented co-stars from the music video, including her dear companion Toderick Hall, as well as the multi-talented Hannah Hart, among others. This remarkable video triumphed over highly acclaimed productions such as the Jonas Brothers’ “Sucker” music video and Ariana Grande’s captivating visual for “Thank You, Next.”

Winner! The video beat out some famous songs such as the Jonas Brothers' Sucker music video and Ariana Grande's video for Thank You, Next

Victorious! The video outshined renowned music videos such as the Jonas Brothers’ captivating Sucker and Ariana Grande’s enthralling Thank You, Next.

Beautiful moment: Toderick and Taylor share a special moment after it was announced that their video for You Need To Calm Down won Video of the Year

A heartwarming moment occurred between Toderick and Taylor as they basked in the glory of winning the prestigious Video of the Year award for their collaborative masterpiece, “You Need To Calm Down”. The evening began with Swift captivating the audience with a vibrant, rainbow-themed performance of the song, a powerful anthem for the LGBTQ+ community. This electrifying opening act was followed by an enchanting live rendition of her romantic ballad “Lover”, the leading single from her highly acclaimed album of the same title.

The stage echoed the iconic imagery from the music video, complete with a display of yellow lawn chairs, on which Swift effortlessly lounged as the performance unfolded. Amidst a shower of captivating rainbows and an abundance of dazzling glitter, she passionately serenaded the crowd. Additionally, Swift used the platform to further promote her unwavering support for the Equality Act. The words “Equality Act” were prominently displayed in vibrant yellow across the stage as she confidently strutted around, spreading her message of inclusivity and acceptance to all.

Opening act: Taylor Swift 's political awakening was on display in full flourish at the MTV Video Music Awards on Monday night

Taylor Swift’s political awakening was proudly showcased during the MTV Video Music Awards on Monday evening.

Huge number: For the first number, the singer danced around with drag queens, some of whom performed with Miley Cyrus at the 2015 VMAs, while surrounded by rainbows

Enormous figure: In an exhilarating display, the vocalist joyfully twirled in the company of drag queen performers, who had previously shared the stage with Miley Cyrus during the 2015 VMAs. The vibrant scene was adorned with a colorful array of rainbows.

Helping hand: Back in May, Swift created a petition asking fans to help her support the Equality Act. The bill has been passed by the House of Representatives and is currently waiting for the Senate to vote

In May, Taylor Swift took it upon herself to rally her fans and seek their support in promoting the Equality Act. This crucial legislation has successfully made its way through the House of Representatives, and is now eagerly awaiting the Senate’s verdict. The passage of this act would be a significant step forward in safeguarding the LGBTQ community from any form of discrimination, particularly when it comes to matters of sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Swift’s dedication to this cause is not a recent endeavor. In fact, she expressed her unwavering support for the act as early as October, when she publicly endorsed Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper during the midterm elections in Tennessee. Resolute in her stance, Taylor emphasized that she firmly believes in the fight for LGBTQ rights, rejecting any form of prejudice rooted in one’s sexual orientation or gender.

Big change: Recently, Swift came out saying she is going to make some positive impact in the next election saying: I just wanna do everything I can for 2020. I wanna figure out exactly how I can help, what are the most effective ways to help'

Major Change: In a recent statement, Swift expressed her determination to play a significant role in the upcoming election, emphasizing her desire to contribute positively. She conveyed her intention to explore various strategies and determine the most impactful ways to assist, stating, “I just want to do everything within my power for 2020.” Discussing her views on Donald Trump, Swift called attention to his apparent belief in an autocratic style of governance. In addition, she disclosed that had she voiced her political opinions during the 2016 election, she would have endorsed Hillary Clinton. Reflecting on the current state of affairs, Swift expressed her disbelief and distress, stating, “I can’t believe we have reached this point.” However, she reiterated her commitment to making a difference, offering her full support for the upcoming election and emphasizing her determination to identify the most effective methods to contribute.

Big dance number: Taylor and Toderick made sure to bring their all to the big stage during the opening number

Epic dance performance: Taylor and Toderick gave their absolute best as they took over the grand stage for the spectacular opening number.
Expressing her thoughts, she emphasized, ‘Without a doubt, I firmly support a woman’s right to choose, and it completely astonishes me that such a situation exists.’
‘I am genuinely taken aback and disgusted by this turn of events. My utmost priority is to contribute to the year 2020 in any way possible. I am determined to explore the most impactful methods of offering assistance.’
‘This is just…unbelievable,’ she stated, her disappointment evident. ‘This is not the way things should be.’

Opening attire: She wore a gold bustier leotard top with a pair of dark blue sparkly shorts that she later added a matching blazer over-top of

For her grand entrance, she chose to don a stunning gold bustier leotard top paired with a glimmering dark blue shorts, which she later elevated by draping a coordinating blazer over it. As she took center stage at the VMAs, the spotlight was undoubtedly on her mesmerizing ensemble created exclusively by Versace. Adding to the flawless coordination, she strutted in a pair of gold Louboutin boots that complemented her entire attire flawlessly. To complete the look, she adorned herself with multiple eye-catching gold chunky necklaces and an array of elegant gold bracelets, adding a touch of extravagance to her performance.

Performer: Taylor's best friend Toderick Hall was right by her side as the opened the VMAs with her hit song, You need To Calm Down

Taylor’s closest friend, Toderick Hall, stood by her side during the VMAs as she kicked off the show with her popular song, “You need To Calm Down”. The audience was left in awe by their captivating performance. After this showstopping number, Taylor, known for her album “Cruel Summer”, confidently walked to the edge of the stage holding a custom guitar that was specially designed with the word ‘Lover’ inscribed on it. She chose to perform the title track from her latest album, “Lover”, for her solo act. As she sang the heartfelt lyrics, the crowd was enamored, and even her famous friends like Gigi Hadid and Camila Cabello were seen singing along to every word. This was an incredible moment for Taylor, who appeared overjoyed to perform her new song in front of such a large and enthusiastic audience. It was just a few days after the release of her seventh studio album, and the energy in the air was electric.

Award winner: Taylor has already won one award of the evening. Taylor and all of her friends won for her music video for You Need to Calm Down

Winner of the prestigious award, Taylor has already bagged one accolade for the night. She, along with her friends, emerged victorious for their remarkable music video for the hit song “You Need to Calm Down.”

With her performance, Swift managed to create a sense of intimacy for her loyal fans and the viewers at home. As she passionately sang this deeply personal tune, it seems like she has moved on from the days of longing for an intense and fiery love, which she often referenced in her earlier works.

Throughout her captivating performance, the singer couldn’t help but wear a genuine smile and let out the occasional giggle. The audience, filled with devoted fans, joyfully swayed their hands in the air, while singing along to each and every word of this freshly released masterpiece.

Graceful bow: Taylor bowed to the fans after her anticipated performance in which her friends and fans sang each word along with the star

Elegant gesture: Taylor gracefully acknowledged her fans with a gracious bow following her highly awaited performance, during which her adoring friends and supporters sang along to every single word sung by the superstar.
Not long after her stellar performance, she managed to swiftly change her attire before triumphantly seizing one of the initial awards presented that evening.
The music video for her hit single “You Need To Calm Down” triumphed in the Video for Good category.
True to her usual Taylor style, she humbly stepped aside to let someone else bask in the limelight. Her friend Toderick Hall, who co-executive produced the video, seized the opportunity to express gratitude to the crowd for the prestigious accolade.

Miss Americana: The pop sensation performed her new song Lover in front of the VMA crowd as she sported a blue sparkly blazer and matching shorts

Miss Americana, the beloved pop star, delighted the VMA audience with a captivating performance of her latest single, “Lover.” This time, she stunned in a dazzling blue blazer, accompanied by matching shorts, which perfectly encapsulated the vibrancy and allure of this new era in her career.
Throughout this transition from the Reputation era, the singer has embraced a bold and colorful fashion aesthetic, leaving a lasting impression on her fans. Her red carpet appearance was no exception, as she adorned herself with an exquisite Versace blazer adorned with the iconic black chains, effortlessly exuding glamour and sophistication.
Completing her ensemble were striking black thigh-high boots, adorned with intricate embellishments, and her signature red lipstick, all of which added an extra touch of flair to her overall look. With undeniable confidence and poise, she gracefully posed for photographers before making her way inside to kick-start the show with her electrifying performance.

Carpet look: Taylor Swift opted for an embellished Versace look as she walked the red carpet ahead of her opening performance

On the red carpet, Taylor Swift decided to rock a dazzling Versace ensemble as she prepared for her highly-anticipated opening performance.

Girl Squad: Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, Sandra 'Pepa' Denton, Halsey, and Bella Hadid smiled at the MTV VMA's

The MTV Video Music Awards witnessed a cheerful gathering of the ultimate squad, comprised of Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, Halsey, and Bella Hadid. The camaraderie between these influential ladies was evident through their radiant smiles that lit up the event.

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