In a move that has surprised many, Sophia Hutchins, the transgender manager of Caitlyn Jenner, a well-known transgender conservative figure, attended former President Donald Trump’s victory party in Iowa. This attendance is particularly noteworthy due to Trump’s known stance on transgender issues.
Hutchins, 26, has been a visible figure alongside Jenner, making appearances on Jenner’s reality show. Her decision to attend the event comes amid the Trump campaign’s ongoing negative rhetoric towards the transgender community. Despite this, Hutchins seemed enthusiastic about being part of the event, sharing her journey to Iowa on social media.
The event also saw the presence of Trump surrogates like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), both known for their anti-trans positions. Greene, in her speech, reiterated her support for only recognizing male and female genders and excluding trans women from competitive sports. Gaetz, on his part, has been vocal in his transphobic views, openly mocking and misgendering trans individuals in the past.
Trump, who has a mixed history with the LGBTQ community, particularly transgender individuals, made statements about banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors and keeping men out of women’s sports. His administration had also implemented a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military.
This juxtaposition of Hutchins, a transgender individual, amidst a party known for its anti-trans rhetoric raises several questions. It highlights the complex and often contradictory nature of political alignments within the LGBTQ community. Hutchins’ attendance at Trump’s victory party is a reminder of the diverse and sometimes unexpected political affiliations within the community.