Kanye West during his campaign rally: “Everybody that has a baby gets a million dollars”
American rapper and songwriter Kanye West officially launches his presidential campaign. In his first rally, he ranted against abortion, argued policy with attendees and at one point broke down in tears.
The said event was livestreamed on YouTube and carried on local television stations. Last July 4, West expressed his interest in running for the 2020 US Presidential election through a tweet. Reports said that he already missed several deadlines to appear on key state ballots.
We must now realize the promise of America by trusting God, unifying our vision and building our future. I am running for president of the United States 🇺🇸! #2020VISION
— ye (@kanyewest) July 5, 2020
West appeared on stage with “2020” shaved into the back of his head and wearing what appeared to be a military-style vest. He argued that abortion should be legal but heavily discouraged, suggesting he would promote a policy as president that anyone who gives birth to a child be given $1 million “or something in that family.”
West referred to the Bible and Christian teachings multiple times. There was also a point where he broke down in tears describing how he was nearly aborted by his parents.
“The only thing that can free us is by obeying the rules that were given to us for a promised land,” he said. “Abortion should be legal because guess what? The law is not by God anyway, so what is legality?”
The event carried few similarities with typical polished candidate events. The venue appeared to lack audience microphones, so West repeatedly told the crowd to be silent so audience members he called on could be heard.
