On May 3, Cardi B will perform in Des Moines for the first time. Anytime anyone of any basic public notoriety or fame comes to Des Moines, it’s a huge thing, but Cardi B is actually a pretty big deal. So much so, that the Polk County Democrats have invited her to speak at any event that she’d like when she’s in town.

I thought I was living in a different dimension when I first heard Cardi B talking politics and even more so I saw that Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., backed her up. Since that moment in early 2018, she has been far more vocal about a host of topics, ranging from racial injustice, the government shutdown, social security, even to dragging Tomi Lahren for her comments about ICE and 21 Savage. Cardi B has been quite outspoken.

When I heard about the invitation, I did a double take and laughed. It’s not that Cardi B can’t talk about politics or that she shouldn’t, it’s just not what she’s known for. Celebrities are consistently bashed for speaking out about issues that matter to them, as if they weren’t private citizens with the same rights as you and I. So with that notion, Cardi B shouldn’t be judged, but the Polk County Democrats might want to reconsider having her as a speaker. She can be problematic, and she caters to a very niche fan base. 

Being a Polk County native myself, I know Cardi B would draw crowds from across the spectrum, which many would see as a success. I’m wary to see implications of this so close to the next presidential election. Now, more than ever, the Democratic Party needs strong voices to revitalize and carry them to Election Day. Iowa has an important role during this season, and who the Democrats choose to champion their cause will have an effect. Cardi B may be young and opinionated, but she will fail to inspire the youth vote.