Signs of Taylor Swift on Wrists at the Democratic Convention

In the weeks leading up to the Democratic National Convention, a surge of enthusiasm for the party’s new ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota brought fresh energy to their campaign events. Some were set to music by Beyoncé and had attendees dancing in the crowds, giving them a bit of a concert-like feel.

Furthering that association at the convention this week in Chicago were a lively set by D.J. Cassidy, which included a surprise appearance by the rapper Lil Jon, and friendship bracelets, the summer-camp staples co-opted by Taylor Swift fans. The accessories have taken on new meaning for many Democratic Party supporters, who see them as a way to build community.

On Wednesday, the day Mr. Walz delivered his prime-time speech, his 23-year-old daughter, Hope, had friendship bracelets around her wrist. On Tuesday, Kari Breker, a 41-year-old delegate from North Dakota, was wearing a stack of bracelets that she had made with other delegates from her state before the convention. Among their colorful beads were others with letters that spelled: “Kamala,” “North Dakota 4 Harris,” “Kamala 2024,” “we choose freedom” and “we are not going back.”

Ms. Breker, who lives in Fargo, N.D., was supportive of President Biden’s being at the top of the Democratic ticket, but said she could not see herself or her fellow delegates making friendship bracelets for him. When Ms. Harris entered the race after Mr. Biden dropped out, “the energy got way higher,” Ms. Breker said. Friendship bracelets, she added, tap into “this female power that Taylor Swift brings out in women, that Kamala also is clearly bringing out in women as well, and girls.”

Ms. Swift, who supported Mr. Biden in the 2020 election, has yet to weigh in