Usher Calls Voting “An Individual Choice” Following Presidential Debate

Usher is facing backlash over a partial comment on voting following Tuesday’s (Sept. 10) presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, but this is another case of something being taken out of context.

The clip in question is from the singer’s recent appearance on The View, where he discussed his four-night stint at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, his music film hitting theaters this weekend, and of course, politics. In the 55-second snippet, Joy Behar praised Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Harris and running mate, Tim Walz. In response, Usher stated, “I don’t get too deep into politics. I didn’t get a chance to watch the debate last night […] I think voting is an individual choice.”

However, seconds before this sentiment, Usher confirmed that he’s backing Harris and Walz in the upcoming election.

When later speaking on political endorsements as a public figure, the 45-year-old added, “Who you highlight and how you choose to highlight it on whatever platform you have is your prerogative.”

In regards to voting overall, Usher also mentioned, “You have to look at the reality of the country that we are and the country that we want to be and find the candidate that you feel fits the category of what you wanna be and that’s it. That’s what you vote based off of.”

In addition to Usher and Swift, Questlove, Cardi B, Maxine Waters, Tina Knowles, Stacey Abrams, Barack and Michelle Obama have all endorsed Harris for President.

The presidential debate between Trump and Harris sparked mixed reactions from viewers. Per CNN, Harris was extensively prepared while Trump appeared to be winging it. Yet, both candidates declared victory following their verbal sparring.

Check out highlights from ABC News below.

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