UPDATE: On July 26, 2023, high-profile members of the Trump administration converged at the exclusive Ned Club in Washington D.C., showcasing a notable shift in power dynamics within the capital. This gathering, featuring key figures like Secretary of the Navy John Phelan and Medicare head Dr. Mehmet Oz, highlighted the emerging influence of openly gay officials in the administration, dubbed the “A-Gays.”
As the evening unfolded, Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce, and Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury, mingled with a new power broker in the room: Charles Moran, the associate administrator for external affairs at the National Nuclear Security Administration. At just 44 years old, Moran is at the center of a burgeoning network of LGBTQ+ leaders making waves in Washington.
This gathering is not merely a social event; it signifies a shift in the political landscape where openly gay officials are taking on significant roles, influencing policies from the Pentagon to the State Department. Their presence is a testament to the evolving attitudes within the Trump administration, where identity and influence intersect.
The term “A-Gays” has surfaced to describe this group, characterized by their pride in serving under President Trump while holding substantial positions. Officials approached Moran, not just for networking, but to align with a new generation of leaders who are reshaping perceptions in a historically conservative environment.
This development is crucial as it reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ representation in government. The visibility of these officials raises important questions about inclusivity and the evolving nature of power in American politics.
As we move forward, eyes will be on how these leaders leverage their influence within the administration and what policies may emerge from their collective efforts. Will this new power tribe drive progressive initiatives, or will they navigate the political landscape in more traditional ways?
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor these dynamics and their implications for both the Trump administration and the LGBTQ+ community at large.
