Antonio Moreno, 38, is stepping into politics with his sights set on being the next mayor of Carcelén, a small town in eastern Spain. What sets Moreno apart from his political opponents is his former career as an adult film star under the name Hector de Silva. Despite the stigma surrounding the industry, Moreno is open about his past, noting that it taught him valuable lessons. He’s even willing to share steamy photos from his previous career.
Moreno is running as a member of the conservative Partido Popular (PP) political party, which previously opposed marriage equality in Spain. However, some PP-led areas of the country have recently introduced legislation against anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. Moreno himself lives in the town with his partner and works as a livestock farmer.
Before entering politics, Moreno worked as a firefighter and felt a strong connection to the community he is now seeking to serve. He is passionate about the town’s potential and its rich heritage, believing that it can attract more families and increase its population.
In the upcoming May 28 election, Moreno will be challenging the town’s current mayor, María Dolores Gómez Piqueras, who has served since 2011. Despite the odds, Moreno remains optimistic and enthusiastic about the campaign trail ahead.
Overall, Moreno’s candidacy is a testament to the changing attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community in Spain, and a reminder that individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences can bring much-needed perspectives to the political arena.