Official campaign statements, news reports, or polling data

Kamala Harris Campaign Accused of Astroturfing, Paying Influencers Up to $20K for Pro-Harris Content

Aug 6, 2024, 11:52 PM

The Kamala Harris and Tim Walz campaign has been accused of engaging in astroturfing by paying social media influencers to post pro-Harris content. According to multiple sources, influencers on platforms such as Instagram and OnlyFans were offered substantial amounts of money, up to $20,000, to create content supportive of Harris and critical of Donald Trump. A whistleblower with nearly 150,000 followers contacted Arizona State Senator Jake Hoffman with evidence of these activities, including screenshots of the offers. One OnlyFans creator claimed he was offered $1,500 to make an anti-Trump video but refused, citing his values. The campaign also allegedly asked influencers to share personal stories about how the Biden-Harris administration has helped them. This revelation has sparked controversy and criticism, with some pointing out that Harris received zero delegates in the 2020 primary and questioning the authenticity of her current popularity.