Eminem as a presidential candidate?

      Eminem for president? This intriguing and imaginative solution to the Democrats' challenges was proposed by New Yorker writer Jay Caspian Kang on his recent podcast episode, Time to Say Goodbye.

      During the episode, Kang and co-host Tyler Austin Harper, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, contended that all establishment Democrats—and even newcomers like U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez—are too intertwined with the shortcomings of the 2024 campaign to inspire a presidential run in 2028.

      They suggested several celebrities who could potentially take the White House by harnessing the Democratic infrastructure, similar to how Donald Trump did with the Republican Party. One of Kang's most captivating recommendations was Marshall Mathers, known as Eminem.

      “Eminem is the Michelle Obama,” Harper stated, referring to the ideal candidate longed for by Democrats.

      How serious were they? Their tone suggested seriousness—an Eminem candidacy would resonate, especially with disillusioned voters tired of the status quo.

      The podcasters typically adopt a bemused and pragmatic view of politics, pointing out the deception and pretenses of both Democrats and Republicans. Although they lean left, they have little tolerance for performative indignation.

      The Argument for Eminem for President in 2028

      Eminem’s stance against Trump is well-known: at the 2017 BET Awards, he performed “The Storm,” a four-minute rap where he labeled Trump a “kamikaze that will probably cause a nuclear holocaust.” He also urged his fans to take a side:

      “I’m drawing a line in the sand: you’re either for or against,” he stated. “If you can’t decide who you prefer and are torn on who to support, I’ll do it for you with this.” He then raised a middle finger.

      The rapper and actor has joked about possibly entering politics since the Clinton administration; his 1999 breakout video for “My Name Is…” depicted him in a suit and politician-style wig in front of a presidential seal.

      Kang and Harper reasoned that Eminem is uniquely positioned to attract voters whom Democrats are losing ground with, such as white men and young people.

      “He would win, wouldn’t he?” Kang inquired.

      “Absolutely, he would win!” Harper responded. “Everyone likes him. Nobody dislikes Eminem.”

      They also highlighted that Eminem’s home state, Michigan, is pivotal in elections. Moreover, they suggested that Eminem—similar to his character in the film 8 Mile—would be untouchable in terms of criticism since he has already opened up about his flaws through his music. (8 Mile concludes with Eminem’s character, Rabbit, mocking himself in a rap battle, telling his opponent, “Tell these people something they don’t know about me.”)

      “What could the opposition research possibly be?” Harper laughed. “We already know! He put it all out on an album that sold millions!”

      Representatives for Eminem did not respond promptly to requests for comments.

      Kang and Harper acknowledged that one potential downside to the Eminem for president idea is that he appears to prefer a relatively reclusive life near Detroit.

      “He doesn’t seem interested in engaging,” Kang observed.

      Like Ronald Reagan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Donald Trump—entertainers who transitioned to political office—Eminem could benefit from low expectations. Additionally, he's not just known for battle raps; he exhibited tact and diplomacy in a recent exchange with fellow Michigan musician Kid Rock, a Trump supporter.

      In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Eminem avoided a political debate with Kid Rock (real name Bob Ritchie) by writing: “Here’s one thing @KidRock and I do agree on… GO @Lions!!!! Appreciate you, Bob.”

      Kid Rock responded, “Thanks @Eminem – Who would have thought it would be two white rappers from Detroit / Michigan to show our divided Country what class is and how it should be done! Appreciate ya too, Marshall!”

      It remains uncertain who the Democratic candidate might face in 2028. Trump recently refrained from endorsing his vice president, J.D. Vance, for re-election and has hinted at a possible third-term run—currently not permitted under the Constitution.

      Main image: Eminem in “My Name Is…” Interscope