Donald Trump’s victory on November 6 left much of Hollywood in shock. Known for its liberal-leaning activism, the entertainment industry now faces a moment of reflection, grappling with what his win reveals about the country and their role in shaping public discourse.

Rather than mounting an all-out resistance as in 2016, many in the industry are shifting their focus to a more strategic, local approach. Instead of trying to counter a presidency that narrowly won the popular vote, advocates are turning their attention to protecting key policies at the state and local levels.

A More Targeted Fight

Hannah Linkenhoker, chief engagement officer at Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, sees a shift in priorities. “This time, the approach is much more micro than macro,” she says. “The focus will be on protecting vulnerable communities and preserving rights that are under threat.”

Natalie Tran, executive director of the CAA Foundation, echoes that sentiment. “The fight for abortion rights, for example, has already moved to the state level. We’re going to see more targeted efforts where they can make the biggest impact.”

Climate change, reproductive rights, and immigration are emerging as major battlegrounds. Trump has vowed to roll back the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which funds clean-energy initiatives, and plans to deport millions of undocumented immigrants while leaving abortion laws to the states.

Several Hollywood-backed organizations focusing on climate change believe local action will be more crucial than ever. Sarah Shanley Hope of The Solutions Project, a nonprofit co-founded by actor Mark Ruffalo, says the focus will now be on states, cities, industry leaders, and everyday people working together to combat climate change and build renewable energy infrastructure.

Similarly, the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, which supported Kamala Harris and other candidates opposing the fossil fuel industry, concentrated heavily on down-ballot races this year. “Local officials are often the last line of defense against policies that could roll back progress,” says Sarah Lane, a spokesperson for the PAC.

Hollywood’s Growing Influence in Local Politics

Many in Hollywood are now looking at city and state politics as their most effective arena. During the 2024 election cycle, several L.A.-based celebrities contributed to local races, backing candidates like Ysabel Jurado for District 14 and Nathan Hochman for L.A. County District Attorney.

“In national races, we’re not under the illusion that we’re shifting the balance,” says comedian Adam Conover. “But in local races, that’s actually a power base.”

The Democratic Socialists of America’s Los Angeles chapter has also seen growing engagement from Hollywood workers. Their Hollywood Labor subcommittee has actively supported progressive candidates, with members pointing to the re-election of city council members Nithya Raman and Konstantine Anthony as signs of progress.

What’s Next for Hollywood’s Political Activism?

After years of celebrity-driven activism, Democrats are reassessing the role of high-profile endorsements. The effectiveness of Hollywood’s involvement in national politics remains uncertain, but at the local level, there’s still strong demand for star power.

“Celebrities can play a crucial role in volunteer recruitment and fundraising, especially in local races where budgets are tight,” Lane notes.

This marks a clear departure from the large-scale anti-Trump protests and political projects that followed his 2016 victory. Unlike then, when Hollywood took a loud, public stand, many now believe that a second Trump term will require a different approach—one rooted in grassroots action and direct community impact.

TV writer Hayes Davenport, who volunteered with the SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition during Trump’s first term, believes this shift could be empowering. “People are feeling a loss of agency with everything happening in the industry and in national politics,” he says. “Working on local issues can give you some of that control back.”

As Hollywood redefines its role in political activism, one thing is clear: the focus has shifted from the national stage to the neighborhoods and policies that directly affect people’s daily lives.