Anne Hathaway Rallies College Students to Stay in Line and Vote, Inspired by Sabrina Carpenter’s Hit Song
During a pivotal election season, actress Anne Hathaway took to Instagram to inspire young voters, especially college students in Pennsylvania, to stay in line despite long waits. Using the tune of Sabrina Carpenter’s popular song “Please Please Please,” Hathaway’s musical message brought a playful yet urgent reminder about the power of voting and the importance of perseverance. In her effort to keep students motivated, Hathaway joined other celebrities advocating for voter turnout, especially in states where students are facing long lines at polling stations.
Anne Hathaway’s Message to College Students: “Please Stay in Line to Vote”
Anne Hathaway, known for her roles in movies like The Devil Wears Prada and The Idea of You, posted a video on Instagram on Election Day urging young people not to leave their polling lines. Recognizing the challenges posed by long waits, Hathaway’s message was specifically directed at students in Pennsylvania, where polling stations on campuses like the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and Temple University reported significant lines.
In a creative twist, Hathaway used the melody of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please” to deliver her message. She playfully sang, “Please, please, please stay on the line / Please, please, please, especially at UPenn and Temple just wait out your time,” adding that while “voting is magic,” it can also be “annoying.” Her lighthearted approach added a dose of humor to an otherwise serious message, encouraging students to hold out and make their votes count.
The Importance of Staying in Line: Hathaway’s Message of Perseverance
In her Instagram caption, Hathaway reiterated her message, reminding students that as long as they are in line before polls close, they have the right to vote. “These are your rights!” she wrote, encouraging young people to exercise their power at the ballot box. Hathaway’s message was clear: no matter how long the lines or how difficult the wait, every vote counts, and no one should leave their spot once they’ve made the commitment to vote.
Her post came with a timely reminder of an important election rule: even if the polls officially close, anyone still in line is legally allowed to cast their vote. This reminder was particularly aimed at first-time college voters, many of whom may be unfamiliar with the specifics of election day policies.
Celebrity Support for Voter Turnout: A Collective Effort
Anne Hathaway wasn’t alone in her efforts. Fellow actor Paul Rudd also made an appearance at Temple University in Pennsylvania, handing out water to students waiting in line. Rudd’s gesture added to the growing list of celebrities stepping up to promote voter turnout and support young voters. From offering water to delivering encouraging messages, these actions by high-profile figures are designed to keep spirits high among voters facing long waits.
Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter, whose song Hathaway adapted for her message, has also been active in encouraging her fans to vote. During her Short n’ Sweet tour, Carpenter registered more voters than any other artist, a feat that highlights her dedication to political engagement among her fanbase. By partnering with voter registration organizations, Carpenter leveraged her platform to make a meaningful impact on voter registration rates ahead of the 2024 election.
Why Pennsylvania is a Key Focus for Voter Turnout Efforts
Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state, has historically played a significant role in determining election outcomes. With many college students residing in Pennsylvania, universities like UPenn and Temple have become essential hubs for political engagement. Hathaway’s direct message to Pennsylvania students underscores the impact young voters can have on state and national elections.
In states like Pennsylvania, where small margins can decide outcomes, voter turnout becomes all the more significant. By urging students to stay in line and vote, Hathaway and other celebrities are reinforcing the message that every single vote contributes to shaping the nation’s future.
Social Media as a Tool for Voter Advocacy
Hathaway’s Instagram post highlights the role social media plays in modern political advocacy. With millions of followers, Hathaway’s platform allows her to reach a broad audience, including young voters who are more likely to engage with online content. Social media has become a crucial tool for public figures to promote civic engagement and voter awareness.
The effectiveness of celebrity-led voter advocacy is amplified by the direct connection social media fosters between influencers and their audiences. Hathaway’s use of a popular song and her friendly, relatable delivery made her message particularly appealing to younger audiences, demonstrating the power of social media in mobilizing voters.
The Power of Staying in Line: Protecting Your Right to Vote
Voting is a fundamental right, but it’s one that often comes with challenges. Long lines, time constraints, and other inconveniences can discourage voters, especially young ones. Hathaway’s message serves as an important reminder that the wait is worth it and that voting is both a privilege and a civic duty.
In encouraging students to stay in line, Hathaway also brings attention to voter suppression tactics that can make the voting process more challenging. For college students, who may have classes or other obligations, waiting in a long line can be especially discouraging. By providing encouragement, Hathaway and other celebrities are helping to counteract some of the factors that can reduce turnout.
