RuPaul slams measures banning drag shows

RuPaul, the queen of drag, is urging Americans to vote “these stunt queens out of office” in response to the recent wave of legislation banning drag shows.

In a video posted to Instagram, the “RuPaul’s Drag Race” creator and host called Republican lawmakers’ fixation on anti-drag and anti-trans legislation a diversion and likened it to bullying behavior.

“Hey, look over there! A classic distraction technique, distracting us away from the real issues that they were voted into office to focus on: jobs, health care, keeping our children safe from harm at their own school,” RuPaul said.

The Emmy-winning host then issued an impassioned call to action.

“Drag queens are the Marines of the queer movement. Don’t get it twisted and don’t be distracted,” RuPaul continued. “Register to vote so we can get these stunt queens out of office and put some smart people with real solutions into government. And by the way, a social media post has never been as powerful as a registered vote.”

On Thursday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed into law a bill restricting “adult cabaret performances” in public spaces, which includes “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest.”

A bill banning genderaffirming health care for transgender young people in Tennessee was signed into law on the same day. And on Monday, Tennessee passed another anti-drag bill, this one requiring “adult cabaret performers” to get a permit in order to perform.

Lawmakers in 14 states — including Arizona, North Dakota, Kentucky and Texas — have also proposed anti-drag and anti-trans measures with similar language.