Why does the US Navy need a drag queen ambassador?

The U.S. Navy’s Controversial Recruitment Strategy: A Drag Queen Influencer

Meet Harpy Daniels, the Navy’s First “Digital Ambassador”

The U.S. Navy has been struggling to recruit new members, so they decided to try a unique approach: deploying a drag queen influencer. Yeoman 2nd Class Joshua Kelley, also known as Harpy Daniels, was named the first of five “Digital Ambassadors” for a recruitment program that ran from October through March. Kelley chronicled his journey as a non-binary drag queen with the Navy through Instagram and TikTok accounts.

Kelley’s role was part of a program “designed to explore the digital environment to reach a wide range of potential candidates” as the Navy faces “the most challenging recruiting environment it has faced since the start of the all-volunteer force,” a Navy spokesperson told Fox News. However, the move has been met with criticism, including from former U.S. Navy SEAL Robert J. O’Neill, who tweeted, “I can’t believe I fought for this bullshit.”

Why the Controversy?

Critics have questioned why the Navy needs to lean into the debate about drag shows and LGBTQ expression, especially after the disastrous partnership between Bud Light and transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Some have also argued that the move is not an effective way to recruit young men into the military.

Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN), who serves as the chairman of the House Military Personnel Subcommittee, called the move “woke” and “partisan,” saying that “TikTok videos of drag queens are just making a bad problem worse.” Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), a former Navy SEAL, also criticized the move on social media.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. Navy’s decision to use a drag queen influencer as a recruitment strategy has sparked controversy and criticism. While some argue that it is a unique way to reach potential candidates, others question its effectiveness and whether it is appropriate for the military. What do you think?