Will Beyoncé Perform at the DNC?

Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Getty Images

So far, Beyoncé has been a looming but invisible presence at the DNC — via the unofficial theme song of Kamala Harris’s campaign, “Freedom,” which played as Harris walked onstage Monday night, and also via the “Cowboy Kamala” sashes and light-up hats Washington State delegates have been wearing around the convention center. But there have been rampant rumors that Queen Bey herself will be showing up, not just in spirit but in living corporeal form, to deliver a surprise performance Thursday night.

Here’s the evidence: According to journalist Johnathan Ford, there is a “scheduled gap” in the DNC lineup for tonight, during which a “special guest” that only a few people know about will do … something. While this immediately set off rumors that Taylor Swift would be jetting into Chicago, a clip of someone singing “Cuff It” over the sound system has some Beylievers convinced that it was a sound check.

When asked about whether Beyoncé will appear at the convention, Democratic Party chair Jaime Harrison told CBS Mornings that the queen is “in here every day, singing ‘Freedom’ — at least we hear it across the intercom.” Okaaaay …? Meanwhile, speaking about the performances, DNC convention chair Minyon Moore told MSNBC earlier this week, “I think anything could be a surprise, even to us sometimes.” These politicians really are slippery, huh?

As for who is actually on the docket to perform Thursday night, the Chicks will be singing the national anthem, and Pink is on slate to close out the evening. At this point, you’ll just have to cross your chest and pray for an appearance from Chardonneigh.