In an unexpected move that has unsettled his supporters, Texas Democratic Congressman Colin Allred, who is running for U.S. Senate, released a campaign ad that employs anti-trans language, mirroring conservative rhetoric typically used by his Republican opponent, Ted Cruz. The ad, which features Allred speaking against “boys playing girls’ sports,” has raised concerns within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly as Allred has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout his political career. The move has sparked outrage and disappointment, particularly among those who had hoped for a progressive alternative to Cruz.
The backdrop to this shift is Cruz’s relentless campaign against transgender athletes, a tactic that has been a focal point in his political messaging. By positioning himself as a protector of women’s sports, Cruz has continuously aired attack ads that suggest transgender inclusion in sports undermines fairness. Allred, in what appears to be an effort to counter Cruz’s dominance on this narrative, released an ad where he states: “I don’t want boys playing girls’ sports or any of this ridiculous stuff that Ted Cruz is saying.” This statement shocked LGBTQ+ advocates, who have long been fighting against the delegitimization of transgender individuals, particularly in youth sports.
LGBTQ+ activists swiftly reacted to Allred’s ad, with prominent voices like Erin Reed expressing their frustration. Reed, a transgender journalist, called Allred’s rhetoric “a stinging betrayal for his potential future LGBTQ constituents.” This sentiment was echoed by other activists, who worry that Allred’s concession to anti-trans arguments may open the door for more Democrats to adopt similar positions in competitive races.
Repercussions for the LGBTQ+ Community
For LGBTQ+ Texans, the political climate is increasingly hostile, with transgender rights becoming a key battleground. The pressure on Democratic candidates like Allred to appease conservative voters threatens to erode the progress made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights. By aligning himself, even slightly, with anti-trans rhetoric, Allred risks alienating not only LGBTQ+ voters but also allies who have stood by him for his support of the Equality Act and other pro-LGBTQ+ measures.
While Allred’s past record shows consistent support for LGBTQ+ rights, including backing protections against discrimination, this ad complicates his position. LGBTQ+ advocates fear that such rhetoric, even if framed as a counter to Cruz’s attacks, may have long-term detrimental effects on the political discourse surrounding trans rights. If prominent Democrats begin to adopt conservative talking points, it may embolden those who seek to roll back protections for transgender individuals.
As the race between Allred and Cruz tightens, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies will be closely watching how this issue develops. The broader implications for transgender rights across the U.S. remain a critical concern, especially in an election cycle where anti-trans sentiment is being weaponized in political campaigns.