Pattie Gonia is a drag queen and climate activist known for her advocacy in the LGBTQ+ community. She has over 690,000 followers on Instagram and 460,000 followers on TikTok.
2. What happened with the Trump campaign ad?
Pattie Gonia was featured in a Trump campaign ad without her consent. The ad aimed to highlight Vice President Kamala Harris' support for transgender people, but it used Gonia's image and likeness without permission.
3. What did the ad claim about Kamala Harris?
The ad claimed that Kamala Harris supports giving trans inmates access to gender-affirming care. It also showed Harris posing for pictures with Pattie Gonia at a 2022 Pride month event.
4. How did Pattie Gonia react to the ad?
Pattie Gonia denounced the ad on her social media accounts, stating that the Trump campaign did not have her permission to use her name or likeness. She also mentioned that she is reviewing her legal options.
5. What legal action is Pattie Gonia considering?
Pattie Gonia is considering taking legal action against the Trump campaign for using her image without consent. However, experts note that it would be challenging to sue for damages in a political ad context.
6. What did Mark McKenna, a trademark law expert, say about the situation?
Mark McKenna, a professor at the UCLA School of Law, stated that while Pattie Gonia has a strong claim if this were a commercial ad, political ads generally receive more leeway and are less likely to be stopped unless they rise to the level of defamation.
7. What is Pattie Gonia doing to counter the ad?
Pattie Gonia is using the situation to raise awareness and funds for LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. She directed her followers to an online fundraiser for Point of Pride and Trans Lifeline.
8. How much money has Pattie Gonia raised so far?
Pattie Gonia has raised $15,000 for LGBTQ+ advocacy groups as part of her efforts to counter the Trump campaign's ad.
9. What is the significance of Kamala Harris' stance on transgender issues?
Kamala Harris' stance on transgender issues has been a point of contention. During her debate with former President Donald Trump, she supported giving trans inmates access to gender-affirming care, which was highlighted in the Trump campaign ad.
10. What is Pattie Gonia's message to her followers?
Pattie Gonia encouraged her followers to vote and to 'make America gay again,' a play on the former president's campaign slogan. She also mouthed 'You're fired!' over audio of the former president's famous catchphrase.
11. What is the overall impact of this situation?
The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and the importance of consent in political advertising. It also showcases Pattie Gonia's resilience and commitment to using her platform for positive change.
