LOS ANGELES—Rapper Kanye West on Monday released his first official campaign video in his long-shot bid to be elected U.S. president on Nov. 3, focusing on faith in God and families.
West, 43, who launched his campaign for the White House on his social media accounts in July, is on the official ballot in a handful of U.S. states, according to U.S. media, but has no mathematical chance of winning.
Some political analysts believe that West’s run for office could siphon some Black supporters away from Democrat Joe Biden in the presidential election.
In Monday’s video, the musician and fashion designer asked supporters to vote for him as a write-in candidate.
America ... What is America’s destiny? What is best for our nation, our people? what is just, true justice? We have to think about all these things, together as a people. To contemplate our future, to live up to our dream; we must have vision. We as a people will revive our Nation’s commitment to faith, to what our constitution calls the free exercise of religion including of course prayer.
The “Heartless” singer, who has 21 Grammy awards, said in 2018 that he suffered from bipolar disorder.
West has spent some $5.8 million on his campaign this year, according to a filing with the Federal Election Commission. Most of the funding comes from a $6.7 million loan from himself.
His kanye2020.country website carries ads for hoodies, hats, and t-shirts ranging from $40 to $160.
