Jonathan Van Ness, widely recognized for their work on Queer Eye, recently spoke out against a controversial campaign ad by former President Donald Trump. The advertisement, which targets non-binary identities and appears to sow division over LGBTQ issues, features Van Ness alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and drag queen Pattie Gonia. In the ad, a narrator dismissively associates Harris with “they/them” pronouns, contrasting her stance with Trump’s purported “protection of traditional values.”
Reacting to the ad on social media, Van Ness expressed a mix of feelings, labeling the experience as “kind of iconic, but mostly upsetting.” They highlighted the problematic nature of political strategies that marginalize and vilify specific groups to consolidate power. Drawing parallels to historical instances of social scapegoating, Van Ness warned against the resurgence of authoritarian tactics used to undermine democratic institutions. Their words carried a message urging the public to recognize the dangers posed by ultra-conservative movements that often masquerade as protectors of liberty while curtailing the rights of minority groups.
Van Ness, who came out as non-binary in 2019, also voiced support for Harris in the upcoming election. They emphasized the importance of rejecting divisive rhetoric and choosing leaders who advocate for progress and inclusivity. “As a non-binary person,” they noted, “binary choices can be challenging, but this election is about moving forward, not regressing to outdated societal norms.” Their call to action resonated with a message of hope over fear, championing a future where queer identities are embraced rather than exploited for political gain.
The use of LGBTQ figures like Van Ness and Gonia in negative political ads underscores the ongoing struggle for acceptance and the critical need for vigilance in safeguarding the community’s rights. As anti-trans sentiments continue to surface in political discourse, the LGBTQ community faces significant challenges in advocating for equal treatment under the law.