Actor Robert De Niro released a new political advertisement on Thursday urging voters to cast their ballots early to secure their votes against potential interference on Election Day. The video, shared by the progressive group Indivisible, is part of a campaign titled "Hands Off Our Vote" aimed at protecting voting rights.
In the ad, De Niro argued that the current administration and the Supreme Court are not respecting constitutional rights, stating that voting is a fundamental right that must be protected. He described the process of supporting a preferred candidate as something that should be "easy," regardless of whether the voter supports a "would-be king" or candidates focused on healthcare and safety. De Niro directed a message to powerful figures he believes seek to diminish voter influence, declaring, "no f***ing way," and stating that they are fighting these efforts in courts and on the streets.
The core of De Niro's message centers on the logistical advantage of early voting. He suggested that by voting by mail or in person before Election Day, individuals can ensure their votes are "banked" regardless of any actions taken by the opposing side on the day itself. This warning follows months of claims by Democratic Party members that President Donald Trump might attempt to rig or cheat in the upcoming midterm elections. Former Vice President Kamala Harris previously stated in an August video that Republicans were "trying to cheat" and that Democratic results would be too large to manipulate.
The White House reacted sharply to the advertisement. Spokesman Davis Ingle told Fox News Digital that De Niro is a "washed up has-been" who has been irrelevant for 30 years. Ingle accused the actor of inciting violence and spreading hate speech, suggesting De Niro should seek treatment for what he called "Trump Derangement Syndrome."
Republicans have criticized Democratic efforts to raise doubts about election integrity, arguing that such claims distract from security measures. Senator Mike Lee, R-Utah, told Fox News Digital in February that Democrats are opposing voter ID and proof of citizenship requirements. He characterized the Democratic stance as a refusal to allow questions about election security, calling their projections "jaw-dropping." Fox News Digital contacted Indivisible for comment regarding the new ad.