By Valdamar Archuleta | Guest Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
As the world wraps up another June, filled with rainbows and unicorns, I, as a gay Republican, reflect on 30 days of what always ends up being unproductive conflict. And once again, I prepare to face the inevitable question: “How can you be a gay Republican?”
Well, it’s pretty easy. Donald Trump was the first American President to take office supporting same-sex marriage. He was also the first President to wave a rainbow on the campaign trail before being elected. Which, he did right here in Colorado. Sure, this can just be tossed up as political lip service, but Trump went further.
In 2019, President Donald Trump introduced the “Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America” initiative. At the same time, his administration, led by U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, launched a global campaign to decriminalize homosexuality in countries where it was still illegal, in some cases by death. According to the ILGA, 61 countries criminalize consensual same-sex acts as of 2025.
Yet, Pride in being a gay Republican goes beyond Donald Trump.
Richard Grenell became the first openly gay man in U.S. history to hold a Cabinet-level position, serving as acting Director of National Intelligence. And now, Scott Bessent, the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking openly gay man to serve in the federal government. Prior to these two, Fred Karger was the first openly gay man to run for president under a major party, launching his campaign for the Republican nomination on March 23, 2011. Eight years before Mayor Pete. These are just a few of our great gay Republicans.
In Colorado, I stand alongside a committed group of LGBT advocates within the Republican Party, actively engaging with school boards, legislators, and community leaders to drive meaningful change for all Coloradans. Our efforts have focused on championing parental rights, ensuring the safety and well-being of children, and safeguarding women’s access to female-only spaces and athletics. I’m deeply honored to be a part of this mission as a proud member of Colorado’s gay Republican community.
That being said, I have to look at the big picture. What does Pride truly represent, and is its celebration something worth recognizing and honoring?
In 1999 Bill Clinton became the first U.S. President to officially recognize June as Pride month. Designating it “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month.” However, the origins of June as a month of Pride predate this formal recognition.
On June 28, 1969, a confrontation between police and patrons of a gay nightclub in New York City, a symptom of tensions between the city and the Genovese Crime Family, ignited the “Gay Liberation” movement. A year later, on June 28, 1970, the first Pride parade was held in New York City, marking the start of what would evolve into today’s LGBT rights movement.
Celebrating the attainment of freedom, regardless of individual beliefs, is something truly American. The iconic phrase from our nation’s founding documents guarantees the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” without any conditions on that pursuit. We believe this fight for freedom is worthy of celebration. Yet, certain elements of what it has evolved into merit scrutiny.
A major concern emerging within the LGBT rights movement is the role and inclusion of children in its pursuits and activities.
The inclusion of children at drag shows and Pride festivals has raised significant concerns among many. Historically, drag has been an art form performed in nightclubs, tailored for adult audiences with mature themes. While it could potentially have been adapted for younger viewers, numerous instances have shown drag queens engaging in provocative behaviors, such as twerking, wearing sexually suggestive outfits, and incorporating adult-oriented innuendos into performances in the presence of children. This is not OK.
Pride itself is fundamentally a celebration of a sexual revolution, traditionally marked by nudity, adult-oriented entertainment, and political activism. While this may be suitable for consenting adults, such an environment is not appropriate for children.
While some people may say that I’m being overly moralistic or a stick in the mud, I would argue that when it comes to protecting the innocence of children, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Another issue that must be addressed when it comes to the current movement is the inclusion of children in gender theory. Let’s be clear, we can have a discussion about protecting children from possible long-term harm while at the same time having compassion for adults dealing with gender dysphoria, self-identity concerns, and the right to freedom of expression.
Several countries, including European nations like the Nordic countries, the United Kingdom, and France, have implemented restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors to safeguard children from potential long-term harm. Medical procedures with lifelong consequences should not be performed on children who cannot provide informed consent due to their age. This shouldn’t even be a question.
When a child experiences confusion about their gender, their parents should be actively involved in the discussion and decision-making process. Also, it’s reckless to hastily adopt a single solution, such as social transitioning, which may set a child on a trajectory toward ongoing, irreversible medical and hormonal interventions. There are alternatives.
Finally, I want to mention the critical issue of women’s right to female-only spaces, such as bathrooms, changing rooms, and athletic competitions, which must remain protected and must not be infringed upon. One individual’s right to self-expression should not override another’s right to safety and comfort. Women have been steadfast allies in the fight for gay rights for years, and now it is our responsibility to stand in solidarity with them.
As Republicans, we need to engage in conversations about these issues with our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and families. These discussions should be respectful and mature. We have a winning message. People agree with our position, supporting the freedom for individuals to express themselves and pursue happiness, while also prioritizing the protection of vulnerable populations and ensuring that no one’s rights are violated.
This November, several important initiatives are going to be presented to Colorado on the ballot that we must get passed. Namely, the “Protect Girls Sports Act” and “Protect Kids From Irreversible Sex-Change Surgery Act.” Let’s take control of the conversation with logic and respect. Our party and these initiatives are not rooted in hate, nor do we seek to strip away anyone’s rights. We hold the common sense position that resonates with the majority of Coloradans, and it’s our job to demonstrate this.
We are an inclusive, diverse party that champions American freedoms while balancing fairness and protection for all. I am proud to be a gay Republican!
Valdamar Archuleta is the former Republican nominee for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District. He currently serves as Captain of Colorado House District 1 and as President of the Log Cabin Republicans. With a strong record of civic engagement, he has a long history of grassroots activism across Colorado.
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.