Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres recently found herself at the center of controversy after making a jab at former President Donald Trump, implying he was anti-LGBT.
The post, shared on her Instagram account, featured an image of a young boy in drag-style makeup with the words, “You can’t tell someone you love them and then vote for someone who will hurt them” written on his cheek.
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The post was met with widespread criticism from users, many of whom identified as part of the LGBTQ community, pushing back on DeGeneres’ portrayal of Trump as harmful to LGBT interests.
One comment, which quickly garnered over 33,000 likes, read, “I’m gay and I’m voting for Trump. Do I hate myself? Absolutely not. Messages like these are what spreads hate.”
Other users shared similar sentiments, with one commenting, “As a lesbian, I had more under Trump. He’s got my vote,” while another added, “Lesbian for Trump right here, baby.”
The responses continued to pour in, overwhelmingly in favor of Trump, leaving DeGeneres without much support for her original post.
The situation highlights a divide in the LGBTQ community, where not all members align with the political left.
While DeGeneres and many in Hollywood have vocally supported Democratic candidates, some individuals within the LGBTQ community have expressed their support for Trump, citing economic reasons and a focus on personal interests over identity politics.
In response to the backlash, many commenters noted that DeGeneres, like other celebrities, assumed she could speak for an entire community based on her status and fame.
However, the response from her own followers suggests a different reality, where many prioritize policy issues like the economy, inflation, and personal freedom over the identity-based narratives often promoted by the left.
Adding to the conversation, Trump himself has courted support from various groups, including the LGBTQ community.
During a campaign event on Tuesday, he playfully called out to a group in the audience, asking, “Where’s Gays for Trump?” The group responded enthusiastically, prompting Trump to joke, “You don’t look gay,” which was met with laughter from the crowd.
Trump’s approach has resonated with many who feel that being part of the LGBTQ community doesn’t necessitate aligning with the political left.
Instead, they argue that voting based on one’s personal interests—such as the economy and national security—should take precedence over identity politics.
Ellen DeGeneres’ social media post serves as a reminder that public figures, even those with large platforms, don’t always reflect the views of the communities they claim to represent.
In this case, the backlash was swift and clear: many LGBTQ individuals are rejecting the notion that voting for Trump is incompatible with their identity, and they are making their voices heard.
As the 2024 election nears, both Trump and his opponents will continue to seek support from all corners of the electorate, including the LGBTQ community.
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