Last week, America FINALLY went to the polls and voted in their 45th President: reality TV star, businessman and rabble-rouser, Donald Trump. After I picked my jaw up off the floor I got on the phone to renowned drag artist, celebrity impersonator, and American citizen Charlie Hides to find out his thoughts on the clusterfuck that is Trump being elected.
What was your initial reaction to Trump’s win?
Fear, shock, horror, and profound disappointment.
Why do you think people voted for him?
It’s easier to sell fear, racism and xenophobia than it is to sell hope, inclusiveness and progressiveness. The white uneducated men who voted for him in their droves connected to the message he was putting forward: ‘he says things that we are thinking’. He was a voice for their disillusionment. Let’s not forget though, Trump’s rallies were like a Klan meeting. He gave them permission to voice their thoughts. It’s comes down to class and education. Primarily, those in the rural areas voted for Trump whilst those in big cities and metropolitan areas voted for Hillary.
What does this say about American politics and society in general?
It says that running for President has now turned into one ugly streetfight. It’s more about winning than offering substantive change. Historically it’s difficult for any party to win a third term so any Democrat would’ve had an uphill struggle. Hillary’s message should’ve talked about change, not a continuation of Obama’s policies. It’s also shown that politicians need to listen to the working class, especially the working class white men.
14% of LGBT people voted Trump. Why?
I would imagine they were mostly privileged white males. Like many others from different minority groups, they perhaps voted on one issue that was pertinent to them and their lives. They put everything else aside. Faced with the two most unpopular presidential candidates ever, they prioritised other issues above solidarity with their queer brothers and sisters. A good comparison would be a Catholic woman voting for Trump; he’s not a godly or virtuous man, but he will protect the unborn baby.
What does this all mean for the LGBT community?
It means we have to be organised, vigilant, and prepared to continue to fight. The same way we fought through the Reagan administration. We also have to be allies to our brothers and sisters of colour, disabled people, immigrants, and anyone who’s been oppressed.
Going forward, what advice would you give to LGBT people?
We can take some time to lick our wounds, but then we MUST pick ourselves up. Do not be fearful, take heart in the fact that public opinion is on our side. There’s lots of work to be done. The time has come for us to unite and fight the common enemy together. And having Mike Pence as an enemy can only galvanise us and make us stronger.
On a lighter note, do you gave any plans to incorporate Melania into your show?
I already have, and she’s proving to be a huge hit. Melania has so many quirks and mannerisms that I can hook onto. Look forward to seeing her in all my shows.
