2024 Republican candidates: Who’s running and how bad would they be for LGBTQ+ rights?
Sign up for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
After months of campaigning, the 2024 Republican presidential race has seen several candidates drop out, leaving Donald Trump as the frontrunner. The race has been notable for its focus on LGBTQ+ rights, with some candidates taking strong stances against the community. Let’s take a closer look at the candidates who have participated in the race and their positions on LGBTQ+ issues.
Donald Trump: The Anti-LGBTQ+ President
Former President Donald Trump remains a dominant figure in the 2024 Republican race, despite facing criminal charges. Throughout his presidency, Trump implemented policies that were harmful to the LGBTQ+ community, including banning transgender individuals from serving openly in the military and rolling back protections for transgender Americans. In his 2024 campaign, Trump has continued his anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, promising to ban gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth and advocating for federal laws that recognize only two genders.
Nikki Haley: Anti-LGBTQ+ Conservative
Nikki Haley, former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador, suspended her presidential campaign after failing to gain traction against Trump. Haley has a strong conservative track record, opposing same-sex marriage and criticizing LGBTQ+ inclusive policies. During her campaign, Haley used anti-LGBTQ+ talking points to appeal to voters, misgendering individuals and denouncing LGBTQ+ rights.
Mike Pence: LGBTQ+ Rights Opponent
Former Vice President Mike Pence dropped out of the 2024 race after comparing transgender healthcare to getting a tattoo before age 18. Pence has a history of opposing LGBTQ+ rights, including opposing same-sex marriage and supporting anti-LGBTQ+ measures. He vowed to support federal bans on trans healthcare if elected president.
Ron DeSantis: Florida Governor Against LGBTQ+ Rights
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis entered the 2024 presidential race by attacking LGBTQ+ rights and touting his anti-LGBTQ+ record. He endorsed a law restricting LGBTQ+ discussions in schools and has been vocal in his opposition to LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.
Vivek Ramaswamy: Anti-Trans Candidate
Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy ended his presidential campaign after finishing fourth in the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy has made controversial statements about transgender individuals, claiming there are only two genders and denouncing what he calls the “trans cult.”
Asa Hutchinson: Anti-LGBTQ+ Governor
Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson suspended his bid for the presidency after failing to gain support. Hutchinson signed several anti-LGBTQ+ bills into law during his time as governor, including bans on trans students participating in sports and restrictions on transgender individuals using certain facilities.
Chris Christie: Inconsistent Support for LGBTQ+ Rights
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dropped out of the presidential race in January after criticizing Trump. Christie has been inconsistent in his support for LGBTQ+ rights, opposing same-sex marriage and vetoing bills that would have allowed LGBTQ+ individuals to change their gender markers.
Tim Scott: Anti-LGBTQ+ Senator
South Carolina Senator Tim Scott suspended his presidential campaign after failing to gain traction among voters. Scott has opposed same-sex marriage and has made statements indicating that he believes homosexuality is morally wrong.
Ryan Binkley: Long Shot Candidate
Texas businessman Ryan Binkley ended his presidential campaign after failing to qualify for debates. Binkley’s campaign focused on restoring faith in God and conservative policies.
Doug Burgum: North Dakota Governor Against LGBTQ+ Rights
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum suspended his presidential bid after signing several anti-LGBTQ+ bills into law. Burgum supported bans on trans students in sports and restrictions on trans individuals’ use of facilities.
Perry Johnson: Failed Presidential Candidate
Failed Michigan gubernatorial candidate Perry Johnson dropped out of the presidential race after failing to gain support. Johnson’s campaign focused on conservative values and opposition to LGBTQ+ rights.
Larry Elder: Anti-LGBTQ+ Conservative
Conservative talk radio host Larry Elder ended his presidential campaign and threw his support behind Trump. Elder has a history of making anti-LGBTQ+ remarks and was a top opponent to California Governor Gavin Newsom during a recall effort.
Will Hurd: Critic of Trump’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Policies
Former Texas Representative Will Hurd suspended his bid for the presidency after failing to qualify for debates. Hurd has been critical of Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ policies and has advocated for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community.
Francis Suarez: Miami Mayor with Conflicting Views
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez suspended his presidential bid after failing to qualify for debates. Suarez initially supported DeSantis’ anti-LGBTQ+ legislation but later criticized its expansion. He has stated that he wants equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community.
In conclusion, the 2024 Republican presidential race has seen a diverse group of candidates with varying stances on LGBTQ+ rights. From strong opponents like Trump and Pence to more moderate voices like Hurd
Follow us on: Facebook for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
