Taylor Swift expressed gratitude to Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy during her Eras Tour stop in Miami on October 19. She had her brother, Austin Swift, deliver a handwritten note to the media personality. The letter was a thank-you for Portnoy’s public defense of Swift following her endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, triggering praise and backlash.
Swift, who rarely makes political statements, caused a stir in September when she endorsed Harris, sparking debates across social media.
While many Republicans, including Donald Trump, openly criticized her choice, Portnoy, a Trump supporter, stood by Swift. He took to social media to emphasize that political differences should not change the personal opinions of others, stating that he respected Swift’s right to vote how she wished. This unexpected support from someone who typically aligns with Trump appeared to have left a positive impression on Swift, prompting her heartfelt thank-you note.
The note, written on Swift’s personalized stationery and sealed with her signature wax “13,” expressed her gratitude for Portnoy’s loyalty. Swift thanked him for “having her back” when many others were critical of her political stance. She ended the message by wishing him a fun time at her concert. The personal touch of delivering the letter through her brother, Austin, at the VIP tent further underscored the sincerity of Swift’s message.
Portnoy’s excitement about the gesture was evident as he took to social media to share the note and recap his concert experience. Dressed in an Eras Tour t-shirt and a jacket adorned with sequins, Portnoy gushed about the “unbelievable” live performance. He also described his emotional meeting with Swift’s mother, Andrea Swift, whom he called warm and appreciative of his support for her daughter. He repeatedly expressed how much the note meant to him, especially given Swift’s busy schedule.
In addition to the letter, Portnoy reflected on the backlash from some Swift fans, who questioned his authenticity as a “Swiftie.” He dismissed these criticisms, urging fans to focus on the love and support that Swift herself embodies. He reiterated that Swifties should stand by their shared passion for Taylor, regardless of political differences. His comments suggest a growing sense of inclusivity within the fandom despite differing worldviews.
Swift’s gesture is the latest in a series of interactions that highlight the complexity of celebrity endorsements in the political sphere. While her political stance has drawn praise and criticism, how she handled Portnoy’s support demonstrates her approach to navigating these challenges gracefully. The personal touch of the letter reflects her gratitude for those who support her, regardless of political alignment.
The Eras Tour continues to captivate fans worldwide, but moments like these show the deeper connections Swift fosters with her supporters. By acknowledging Portnoy’s public defense, Swift showcased her commitment to maintaining a positive and inclusive community within her fanbase.