Does Supporting Trump as an LGBT Member Mean Ignoring My Values?

As a member of the LGBT community who supported Donald Trump's presidential campaign, many question why I would remain supportive of him. Some argue that he doesn't truly support our community, while others suggest that a political vote should be purely based on policy rather than personal values. However, I believe that my support is rooted in a deeper understanding of Donald Trump's efforts for our community, despite his shortcomings.

The Reality of the LGBT Community

In today's political landscape, the LGBT community is often perceived as solely politically aligned rather than a community based on mutual support. Political activists can sometimes come across as authoritarian figures, advocating for policies that don't always align with the grass-roots movements within the community.

Considering Trump's stance on gay marriage in the 1990s, compared to Hillary Clinton's policies, it's clear that both had their merits and detractions. While Trump's public statements could be seen as controversial, his efforts in supporting gay marriage and promoting policy changes within the United States cannot be ignored.

A Moderate Conservative View

I identify as a moderate conservative on many issues, but my support for Donald Trump is rooted in a deeper political realism. Politics is not about perfect alignment but about finding leaders who align with core values and are capable of making tangible changes. My decision to vote for Trump was based on his willingness to do what he could, given the constraints of the political system, to advocate for our community.

A Regret with Enduring Impact

While I regret not voting for Trump a second time, it does not diminish the positive impact he has had on the global stage. His campaign challenged the criminalization of gay people in lower developed countries, which no other president has done. This initiative alone demonstrates his commitment to promoting LGBTQ rights on an international scale.

Additionally, the ban of transgender individuals in the military was a necessary stance in my view. The military needs to safeguard the integrity and safety of all its members, and relying on hormones to determine fitness is not a reliable standard. Gender identity should not be a factor when it comes to making split-second decisions in combat situations.

Positive Long-term Attitudes

Donald Trump's positive attitudes towards gay people have been more long-term and consistent than any president in history. The consistent support for our community, especially in the context of military service and international advocacy, speaks to his commitment and dedication.

It is important to acknowledge and celebrate these positive developments, even as we continue to demand more. The truth is, progress is often a matter of incremental change, and Trump's efforts have provided a foundation for further advancements.

Closing Thoughts

Supporting Donald Trump does not mean ignoring important values within the LGBT community. It means recognizing the complex nature of political leadership and the importance of finding positive change where it exists. Whether one agrees with my views or not, it is crucial to maintain civil discourse and respect for differing opinions.

Let us continue to advocate for our rights and make our voices heard, while also recognizing the progress that has been made. Even if we disagree, we must contribute to positive and constructive dialogue rather than feeding into endless comment wars.