At the Feenstra Family Picnic, a Republican fundraiser attended by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, startling remarks emerged concerning the influence of drag queens on young people’s decision to join the United States armed forces. Governor DeSantis suggested that the presence of drag performers was a deterrent for potential recruits.
While addressing the audience, DeSantis also boasted about his intervention in the self-governance of the Disney Corporation, asserting that companies should not have their own autonomous rule. He further touched upon education matters, emphasizing the importance of upholding parental rights against school districts and boards, implying a connection to the availability of LGBTQ+-affirming literature in school libraries, which his administration had controversially restricted.
The governor’s speech veered into the subject of immigration and the southern border before focusing on the need to restore integrity to the nation’s institutions. Reflecting on his own military service in the U.S. Navy during the Iraq war, DeSantis accused the armed services of becoming politicized and integrating societal issues, specifically mentioning “gender ideology” in reference to transgender service. He went on to express his belief that recruiting videos featuring drag performers were fundamentally misguided.
Governor DeSantis’s comments shed light on the recent backlash faced by the U.S. Navy following the appointment of an active-duty drag queen as a “digital ambassador” in an effort to boost recruitment. The Navy’s decision has drawn criticism, as it struggles to meet its recruiting goals for the year. Yeoman 2nd Class Joshua Kelley, known by their stage name Harpy Daniels and identifying as non-binary, expressed gratitude for their experience as a sailor, highlighting the strength, courage, and representation they provide for queer individuals.
Although Governor DeSantis has not officially announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential race, speculations suggest an imminent declaration. In recent weeks, he has intensified veiled criticisms of former President Donald Trump, further fueling anticipation surrounding his potential bid. However, due to unforeseen weather conditions, a scheduled outdoor rally in Des Moines, which coincided with DeSantis’s appearance at the Feenstra Family Picnic, was canceled.
The fundraising breakfast, held to support U.S. Congressman Randy Feenstra of Iowa’s 4th district, attracted influential Republican figures and lawmakers, including Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. Reynolds, whose stance on LGBTQ+ rights has been inconsistent, signed a bill in 2022 that prohibits transgender girls and women from participating in female sports teams. While she previously described same-sex marriage as a settled matter, Reynolds has distanced herself from the Iowa Republican Party’s position against it.
Before departing for Iowa, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1580, enabling health care providers and insurance companies in Florida to deny care or reimbursement based on their ethical or religious beliefs. Equality Florida and Planned Parenthood have expressed concerns, asserting that the law grants physicians and providers legal protection to discriminate against patients.
Pending the governor’s signature is Senate Bill 1438, a piece of legislation that indirectly targets live, adult performances by authorizing state officials to suspend or revoke the liquor licenses of establishments admitting minors. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups argue that the vague language of the bill enables arbitrary enforcement