Kiss star Gene Simmons has criticized celebrities who use their popularity to sway the forthcoming U.S. presidential election.

America is set to go to the polls on November 4th to decide whether Democrat Barack Obama or Republican John McCain will win the race to the White House. And the campaign has been littered with celebrity endorsements, with stars including Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and Jay-Z all publicly voicing their opinions on the candidates and urging the public to vote accordingly.

However, Simmons insists that Americans should be free to make up their own minds. He tells Blabbermouth.net, "Everyone is so touchy about the forthcoming election. And for the record, I don't believe any celebrity should be using their bully pulpit to coerce their fans to vote either way. I refuse to tell anyone what my political leanings are. I agree with both parties on certain issues and strongly disagree with both candidates on other issues. Vote for either candidate, but vote."

Related article: To All Celebrities Who Support Barack Obama: Please Shut Up!

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)