Swift’s spokesperson commented on the new merchandise: “This is more than a tour line—it’s a movement. Taylor wants her fans to know that they have the power to shape their communities and make their voices heard.”
Unsurprisingly, the merchandise announcement has added fuel to the fire. Fans in red states are voicing frustration over the exclusion, with some calling it “performative activism” and others feeling insulted by what they see as a dismissal of their values.
One fan from Florida tweeted, “I guess my money isn’t good enough because of where I live? Thanks, Taylor. I thought you believed in ALL your fans.”
Swift’s decision has caught the attention of her celebrity peers, with several coming out in support of her stance. Celebrities including Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato posted messages of support, applauding her for “standing up for her beliefs.” Meanwhile, country star Carrie Underwood commented, “While I respect her right to her opinion, music should bring us together, not push us apart.”
Not all celebrity reactions have been supportive. Kanye West, Swift’s infamous longtime nemesis, took the opportunity to throw a bit of shade, tweeting, “Guess I’ll be the only one touring in all 50 states, then.”
Political commentators have jumped in as well, with some conservative voices decrying Swift’s boycott as an “out-of-touch Hollywood stunt” while progressives praise it as an example of “putting your values over your wallet.”
“This is a brave stand,” said one liberal pundit on a popular talk show. “Taylor knows she’ll lose ticket sales, but she’s saying her values come first. That’s rare, especially in this industry.”
Several red-state leaders have reacted to Swift’s announcement with both disappointment and bemusement. The governor of Tennessee, Swift’s home state, called her decision “a shame for the people of Tennessee,” adding, “We’ve always been proud of Taylor and her success. I hope she reconsiders and remembers where she came from.”