Drag Queens Mobilize with Political Action Committee to Impact 2024 Election

A newly formed political action committee, Drag PAC, is uniting prominent drag performers to combat anti-LGBTQ legislation and politicians. The committee has taken to social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X to gather funds for the upcoming November elections.

Drag PAC, officially registered in March 2024, has dual capabilities: it can donate limited funds to politicians while also raising and spending unlimited amounts for independent expenditures. The founding members include well-known “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alumni Peppermint, Monet X Change, Alaska, BenDeLaCreme, and Willam.

In a YouTube announcement, Jinkx Monsoon, winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 5 and All Stars Season 7, expressed disillusionment with the current political leadership and highlighted the increasing violence against the LGBTQ community. Peppermint, coinciding the launch, explained to OpenSecrets that the initiative stemmed from a suggestion by rapper and podcaster Dan Stermer, known as Big Dipper.

Peppermint emphasized the importance of financially supporting candidates whose values resonate with the PAC’s mission, countering those backed by substantial donors. She stressed that their aim is to endorse candidates who advocate for LGBTQ rights.

As of July 2024, Drag PAC has raised over $140,000. Major contributions include $60,000 from Dylan Bulkeley-Krane, a long-time Democratic donor and one of the committee’s organizers. Bulkeley-Krane explained that initial funding was essential for establishing the PAC, which now also benefits from numerous small donations and volunteer efforts from its members.

Drag PAC distinguishes itself as the first federal political committee led by drag performers, with a targeted focus on supporting queer issues. Willam, another “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum, stated that their strategy involves voter outreach and spotlighting down-ballot candidates championing LGBTQ rights, mentioning hopefuls like Honey Mahogany of San Francisco and Maebe A. Girl of Los Angeles.

Peppermint highlighted the imperative of engaging younger generations, particularly Gen Z, in political processes. She noted that educating these younger voters on candidates and their platforms forms a critical part of Drag PAC’s strategy.

The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts College has indicated that 41 million Gen Z members will be eligible to vote in the 2024 presidential election, with eight million being first-time voters. Drag PAC aims to mobilize this demographic through voter registration efforts and a strong social media presence, relying on financial support to achieve these objectives.

Willam emphasized the necessity of financial contributions to support their efforts, noting the proficiency of drag queens in fundraising and mobilizing resources to facilitate effective campaign strategies.