
Introducing the Log Cabin Republicans of Charlotte
by Don Webber, President Log Cabin Republicans of Charlotte Published March 1, 2025We're the Bert and Ernie of the MeckGOP!
The Charlotte Chapter, launched in August 2024, is part of the nation’s largest Republican organization dedicated to representing gay conservatives and allies. Who, for more than 40 years, have promoted the fight for equality through our state and local chapters, with full-time office staff in Washington, DC, and federal and state political action committees. We are loyal Republicans who believe in limited government, strong national defense, free markets, low taxes, personal responsibility, and individual liberty. As such, we believe it is wholly consistent as the Party of Lincoln which formed in order to end slavery, and as conservatives who believe in a limited government that expands freedom for its citizens rather than takes it away, that the Republican Party be the champion for equal rights and protections for all.
We believe in the true diversity of the gay community, and that includes the diversity of thought and political perspectives. Log Cabin Republicans provide a home for those within the gay community who want to talk openly with others who share their values without fear of judgment or exclusion.
We are proud to celebrate the rapid growth of our chapter, launched just this past August. In just a few short months, we have brought together over 44 members - and counting, united by our shared commitment to conservative principles and a vision for a brighter future. Our momentum reflects the power of collaboration and the passion of individuals who believe in building a stronger voice for gay conservatives in Charlotte and beyond.
Together, we are not only making an impact locally but also standing as proud representatives of the values that bind us—freedom, opportunity, and equality.
As we look forward to 2025, we do so with optimism inspired by the recent presidential election and the legacy of progress achieved under the Trump administration.
During his last term, President Trump appointed openly gay individuals to groundbreaking positions of leadership, such as Richard Grenell, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Germany and later as Acting Director of National Intelligence—the first openly gay person to hold a cabinet-level position in U.S. history. Furthermore, under the Trump administration, initiatives like the global campaign to decriminalize homosexuality reflected a commitment to human rights and the protection of gay individuals worldwide.
Now, President Trump again has assembled a diverse administration for his second term, appointing several openly gay officials to key positions, countering Democratic claims that he threatens LGBT rights. Notable appointments include Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary (potentially the highest-ranking openly gay official in U.S. history), Ric Grenell as presidential envoy for special missions, Bill White as U.S. ambassador to Belgium, Tammy Bruce as State Department spokesperson, and Jacob Helberg as undersecretary of state for economic growth.
Trump’s allies emphasize that his selections are based on merit rather than identity politics. Despite criticism from Democrats, many in the gay community express optimism. Trump’s administration aims to reflect diversity while prioritizing competence, challenging narratives that his presidency is harmful to gay individuals.
While the Republican Party platform remains rooted in traditional conservative values, these conversations have begun to foster inclusivity and engagement with gay communities. President Trump himself made history by acknowledging Pride Month in 2019, signaling an openness to recognizing the contributions of gay Americans within the broader conservative movement.
Our chapter stands ready to build on this legacy, serving as a bridge between the GOP and the gay community in Charlotte.
With our collective dedication and the values we champion, we are poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead—both in advancing our mission locally and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive Republican Party nationwide.