After the 2016 election, a group of left-wing celebrities created a video urging members of the Electoral College not to vote for Donald Trump, despite his victory in the election. The celebrities argued that the Electoral College was designed to prevent a demagogue from assuming the presidency and that the electors had the power to choose a different candidate who they believed was more qualified. The video featured well-known celebrities such as Martin Sheen, Richard Schiff, Debra Messing, Bob Odenkirk, Noah Wyle, and B.D. Wong.
The video, sponsored by the organization Unite for America, aimed to influence the electors who would be casting their votes for the president-elect. It cited the Federalist Papers, a collection of essays by America’s founding fathers, which emphasized the importance of electing someone who possessed the necessary qualifications to serve as president.
Many people have raised concerns about the legality of such a video and whether it constitutes election interference or the denial of a peaceful transfer of power. These concerns are particularly relevant in light of recent events surrounding the Trump impeachment proceedings. Critics argue that if Trump can be indicted based on new rules, then the celebrities who made this video should face similar consequences.
The media coverage of this video was generally favorable, with little to no criticism. In 2016, Business Insider reported on the video, highlighting the celebrities’ plea to the Electoral College not to vote for Trump. The article quoted Martin Sheen’s statement about the purpose of the Electoral College and mentioned the other celebrities who participated in the video.
However, some individuals argue that if the Department of Justice (DOJ) is taking action against Trump for questioning the integrity of the 2020 election, then it should also prosecute these celebrities for their role in trying to influence the Electoral College’s vote. They believe that the celebrities, by openly calling for the overturning of a legally elected president, engaged in misinformation spreading and election denying behavior. Social media users have been expressing their frustration and demanding accountability for these celebrities, comparing their actions to those of Trump and suggesting that they should face legal consequences.
There is a concern among some that if Trump were to win another election in 2024, similar videos and campaigns could surface, with Democrats supporting them. This raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the potential for partisan actors to interfere with and undermine election outcomes.
In conclusion, the video created by leftist celebrities in 2016, urging the Electoral College not to vote for Trump, has attracted attention and criticism from those who believe it constitutes election interference and the denial of a peaceful transfer of power. People have questioned why these celebrities have not faced legal consequences, considering the recent actions taken against Trump. The media coverage of the video was generally positive, with Business Insider reporting on it at the time. The public debate surrounding this issue highlights concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the potential for partisan manipulation in future elections.
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