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As a gay therapist in a predominantly queer community, I rarely encounter political beliefs that differ from my own. In my predominantly LGBTQ+ area, it’s assumed that everyone, gay or straight, aligns with the Democratic party. But every now and then, I come across gay men on social media who openly support the opposition: Donald Trump. Given Trump’s record on LGBTQ+ issues, I wondered—what motivates some gay men to support a candidate who appears at odds with their rights?
In an effort to understand, I took a closer look at the reasons some gay men support Trump. Here’s what I found.
The “Gays for Trump” Movement
This isn’t just a social media tagline; “Gays for Trump” is a real organization with members who believe in Trump’s policies. They argue that Trump’s stance on various issues aligns with their priorities, whether that’s economic policy, personal freedoms, or other aspects of conservatism. For them, Trump’s actions and policies provide a sense of stability and alignment with their vision of American values, which they believe will lead to a stronger country—even if it doesn’t prioritize LGBTQ+ issues directly.
Money First: Prioritizing Economic Policy Over Social Issues
Some gay men prioritize their financial health and economic growth over LGBTQ+ rights. For these voters, the economy is the most important issue, and they feel Trump’s tax cuts, deregulation policies, and emphasis on job creation work in their favor. They believe Trump’s policies will lead to financial security, which they see as a foundation for other freedoms. Though they may be aware of Trump’s questionable record on LGBTQ+ issues, they’re willing to overlook it, believing they can secure their financial future under his leadership—even if it risks some civil liberties.
“We’re Past That”: LGBTQ+ Equality is Already Achieved
Some argue that the major fights for LGBTQ+ rights—like marriage equality and workplace protections—have been won. This perspective sees today’s LGBTQ+ issues as less critical or even as hindrances to moving forward as a society. In their view, continued emphasis on LGBTQ+ advocacy reflects a “victim mentality” rather than a focus on success. This perspective may minimize or overlook the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals still face, assuming that the biggest battles are over.
The “G” in LGBTQ+: Distancing from the Broader Queer Community
Another factor is a sense of distance from the broader LGBTQ+ community. For some gay men, particularly those who don’t identify with the “T” (transgender) or “Q” (queer), the specific struggles of gender-diverse individuals may feel less relevant to their own lives. Policies like bans on gender-affirming care may not seem directly impactful, and for them, Trump’s views on such issues do not appear as threatening. This “single-issue” view can result in gay men voting in favor of policies they support, despite the effects those policies may have on other members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Gun Rights Are Gay Rights
There’s also a growing movement among gay conservatives who see the right to bear arms as essential for self-protection, especially given the reality of violence against LGBTQ+ people. Many in this camp believe that arming themselves is a pragmatic step in combating hate crimes, and they look to Trump as a staunch defender of the Second Amendment. They align with Trump’s views on gun rights, feeling that personal safety takes precedence over LGBTQ+ policy issues when it comes to their voting decisions.
A Gay Therapist's Take
The reasons gay men vote for Trump are complex and personal, often rooted in prioritizing certain freedoms or values over others. While I may not agree with these reasons, understanding them allows for a more open dialogue. In some cases, these decisions might stem from internalized homophobia or social pressures. But others are motivated by pragmatism, a desire for self-preservation, or simply different priorities.
I respect everyone’s right to vote, but understanding different perspectives—without judgment—can foster deeper conversations. Rather than making assumptions, I find it more productive to listen. In an increasingly polarized world, empathy and understanding may be the only way we’ll move forward.
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