In a notable intersection of politics and pop culture, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a powerful election message during the season 9 finale of Paramount+’s hit show, RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars. Her appearance, which included a call to action for voter registration, came amid her own presidential campaign announcement following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election in 2024.
Released ahead of the finale’s broadcast on Thursday, July 25, the clip features Harris, alongside familiar faces from the Drag Race community such as judge Michelle Visage, choreographer Jamal Sims, and former guest judges Lance Bass, Leslie Jones, and Cheyenne Jackson. The group gathered in the show’s Werk Room for what Visage described as “an extra-special Drag Race viewing party.”
Addressing viewers, Harris touched on recent legislative challenges affecting the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “Each day we are seeing our rights and freedoms under attack, including the right of everyone to be who they are, love who they love openly and with pride.” She emphasized the importance of voting, declaring, “Your vote is your power. So please make sure your voice is heard this November and register to vote at vote.gov.”
The video concluded with Jackson exclaiming the show’s signature phrase, “Can I get an amen?!” and Jones playfully modifying RuPaul’s famous sign-off with, “You betta vote.”
Filmed prior to her presidential bid announcement, Harris’s cameo resonates deeply with the themes of inclusivity and empowerment central to RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars. The show brings back standout queens from previous seasons for a competitive shot at not only the Drag Race Hall of Fame but also a chance to secure a substantial $200,000 donation for a charity of their choice.
The all-stars of season 9 and their selected charities include Angeria Paris VanMicheals (season 14) supporting The National Black Justice Collective, Gottmik (season 13) for Trans Lifeline, Jorgeous (season 14) backing The National Alliance of Mental Illness, Nina West (season 11) for The Trevor Project, Plastique Tiara (season 11) contributing to The Asian American Foundation, Roxxxy Andrews (season 5, All Stars season 2) advocating for Miracle of Love, Shannel (season 1, All Stars season 1) supporting The Anxiety and Depression Association of America, and Vanessa Vanjie (season 10, 11) representing The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
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This charitable initiative is funded by The Palette Fund, a foundation dedicated to breaking barriers and advancing social change in under-resourced communities. “We’re here to not just celebrate drag in all its forms, but show the power it has on its communities and the good it does for people all over the world,” remarked Nina West, echoing the sentiment shared by all participating queens.
“It’s all about giving back, baby,” added Mateo, encapsulating the spirit of generosity and activism at the heart of RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars. The season’s blend of competition and advocacy underscores the platform’s influence in promoting social causes and celebrating diversity within the global LGBTQ+ community.