Georgia Democratic gubernatorial nominee backs child-friendly Halloween event with drag performances
Democratic candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms is listed as a sponsor for a Columbus, Georgia Halloween celebration that will feature drag shows after 9 p.m., while the event also includes family activities earlier in the evening.
ColGay Pride, a Columbus, Georgia LGBTQ+ nonprofit, is hosting its final Halloween celebration after 13 years, featuring a family-friendly haunted walk, s’mores and a costume contest before an adults-only drag show begins after 9 p.m. The organization highlighted former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, the Democratic nominee for governor, as a sponsor and posted a digital certificate of her support on Facebook. The group cited severe financial strain after federal funding was eliminated during the Trump administration, saying it will close its doors next year.
Bottoms has previously drawn criticism for backing drag-themed events, including a 2019 library story hour, and for opposing the Riley Gaines Act in a recent debate. Her opponent, Republican Rick Jackson, is using those positions to attack her on gender and sexuality issues as the November 3, 2025, gubernatorial race approaches.
Why it matters
The sponsorship links a high-profile candidate to a controversial children’s event, influencing voter perceptions in a tight state race.
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