About 100 Donald Trump supporters gathered in Charlotte, N.C., for a Trump UNITY event aimed at wooing LGBTQ voters. However, LGBTQ issues were not a top priority for many attendees. Despite the lack of emphasis on LGBTQ issues, conservative influencers, Republican officials, and Trump family members spoke at the event. The Log Cabin Republicans, an LGBTQ conservative group, organized several similar gatherings in swing states leading up to the election. The event featured speakers who praised Trump’s support for the LGBTQ community, such as appointing Richard Grenell, an openly gay man, to a Cabinet position.
Although LGBTQ issues were briefly mentioned, many attendees, mostly white gay men, were more focused on other priorities like the economy and safety. Conservative social media influencer Rob Smith stated that LGBTQ Americans are federally protected and have achieved equality, dismissing the push for the Equality Act as “ridiculous.” Organizers believe Trump could secure up to 50% of gay voters in the election, contrary to polling data showing overwhelming support for Vice President Kamala Harris among LGBTQ voters.
Critics denounced the Trump UNITY events, accusing Trump of leading an anti-LGBTQ administration. If re-elected, Trump has vowed to reinstate policies targeting transgender individuals. In contrast, Harris has a strong record of supporting LGBTQ rights. The Log Cabin Republicans’ fundraising events for Trump have faced criticism for prioritizing proximity to power over the LGBTQ community’s best interests.
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