In the wake of mounting accusations that high-profile celebrities were financially compensated for rallying behind Kamala Harris, rapper Cardi B has addressed claims that she was paid for her appearance at a Harris campaign rally. The speculation began when conservative commentator Candace Owens publicly questioned whether Cardi B received compensation for her support. Cardi, a vocal Democratic supporter, responded decisively, confirming that she had received no payment for her appearance and asserting her commitment to political advocacy.
The exchange unfolded on social media after Owens tagged Cardi B on X (formerly Twitter), asking, “Hey @iamcardib — Working on a story and was wondering if you were in any way paid to speak at the Kamala campaign event you spoke at.” The “Bodak Yellow” artist swiftly replied, stating, “I didn’t get paid a dollar and that’s on my three,” emphasising that she even covered her own glam and travel expenses. “You know damn well I’ll argue you down about politics FOR FREE,” Cardi added with characteristic wit.
Cardi B was among several celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, and Megan Thee Stallion, who rallied for Harris, hoping to usher in America’s first female president. During her speech at a Milwaukee rally, the rapper discussed shared struggles, noting, “Like Kamala Harris, I’ve been the underdog, underestimated, and had my success belittled.” Cardi’s remarks aimed to resonate with voters by highlighting Harris’s and her own journey of resilience and defiance against societal obstacles. Despite their efforts, however, the election ultimately saw Donald Trump secure a second, non-consecutive term.
Cardi’s response to Owens’ allegations came shortly after Oprah Winfrey dismissed similar claims regarding her involvement with the Harris campaign. Reports surfaced alleging that Winfrey’s production company, Harpo Productions, received $1 million to host a celebrity-studded town hall supporting Harris. Winfrey, who facilitated the town hall with appearances by Meryl Streep, Bryan Cranston, and others, categorically denied any payment, asserting through TMZ, “Not true. I was paid nothing – ever.”
Further accusations have targeted rapper Megan Thee Stallion, who allegedly received a $5 million sum for her campaign trail support. According to the New York Post, the Harris campaign reportedly allocated up to $20 million for campaign concerts in swing states and additional six-figure sums for prominent media appearances, such as a podcast segment on “Call Her Daddy.” As the allegations continue, Cardi B and other celebrities maintain their endorsements were genuinely rooted in political conviction rather than financial incentive.