'SVU' Actress Mariska Hargitay Reveals Who She Is Voting For In The Upcoming Election

Mariska Hargitay, known for her longtime role as Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: SVU," has announced her support for Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming election, stating that her vote is firmly aligned with Harris’s vision and dedication to women’s issues.

Her role on "SVU" further shaped her understanding of the challenges women face, both on-screen and off. In her endorsement post, Hargitay shared that she sees Harris as a leader with a profound commitment to social justice, particularly around issues affecting women and families.

Mariska Hargitay, who has spent much of her life advocating for women, says her decision to support Kamala Harris stems from a shared commitment to gender equality, justice, and the empowerment of women.

Throughout her career, Mariska Hargitay has been a vocal supporter of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, founding the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004 to support victims and raise awareness of these issues.

And, for Hargitay, supporting Kamala Harris is a natural extension of her life’s work, and she hopes her endorsement will inspire others who share her values to make their voices heard in the election.

"You all know me. I’ve spent my life fighting for girls and women," the "SVU" actress said on Instagram. "With so much on the line this election, I hope you all are voting! I am prioritizing a strong leader who will uphold the law, defend our democracy, and protect our freedoms. My vote is for Kamala Harris."

As Hargitay continues her advocacy both on and off-screen, her support for Harris further reinforces her longstanding values.

Mariska Hargitay’s advocacy for women, particularly survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, has been a significant part of her public life and career.

Her role as Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: SVU" inspired her to take real action off-screen. Seeing the impact her character had on viewers—especially survivors who saw Benson as a symbol of justice and compassion—motivated Hargitay to create the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004.

The Joyful Heart Foundation is all about giving survivors of abuse the resources, support, and advocacy they need, while also pushing for changes in the criminal justice system to handle these issues better. One of the foundation’s biggest missions? Tackling the national backlog of untested rape kits, which has kept justice out of reach for countless survivors.

Hargitay’s been relentless, using both her foundation and public appearances to push for laws that demand accountability and real change—she’s on a mission to make sure survivors are heard, supported, and get the justice they deserve.

Hargitay’s advocacy goes well beyond her work with the Joyful Heart Foundation. She consistently uses her platform to speak out on the need for stronger protections for women and survivors of violence, even testifying before Congress to support these critical issues.

By blending her influence as an actress with her commitment to activism, Hargitay has become a powerful force for change, using her public voice to raise awareness, advocate for reform, and support survivors in their journey toward healing.

VP Kamala Harris is putting women’s rights front and center in her 2024 campaign, with a big focus on reproductive freedom. She’s promised to bring back the protections of Roe v. Wade and wants to lock these rights into federal law.

Harris’s push has earned some major star power backing—Cardi B showed up at a Milwaukee rally to speak on women’s rights and healthcare, while Michelle Obama has been hitting the campaign trail with her, calling on voters to support Harris’s stance on reproductive rights.

In the lead-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election, several high-profile celebrities have publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.

Taylor Swift announced her support for Harris and running mate Tim Walz in September 2024, shortly after the debate against Donald Trump concluded.

Plus, on November 2, Harrison Ford made a rare official political endorsement, backing Harris.

Other notable figures include Beyoncé, Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lopez, Octavia Spencer, and more.

Election Day is on Tuesday, November 5.