Tucker and Pete

Image:  Gage Skidmore at Wikipedia

It's news to me that assorted far-right pundits believe Pete Buttigieg isn't gay.

On Tucker Carlson's podcast this week, guest Michael Knowles claimed that in progressive politics some identities are advantageous. "I give you Pete Buttigieg," he said, and Carlson responded, "The fake gay guy?"

Carlson said "my gay producer" always claimed Buttigieg was a fraud, and added that should he interview the former presidential candidate, "I’m gonna ask him very specific questions about gay sex and see if he can even answer. I doubt he even knows. You’re not gay, dude. Stop."

I don't know where to start. Yes I do.

The idea of Carlson asking Buttigieg sexual questions to authenticate his orientation is presumptuous and prurient.

(Though if he asks them too convincingly, gay rumors will start about Carlson, and I'm good with that.)

Nobody has the right to decide another person's orientation. Least of all a former Fox News personality known for bringing fringe conspiracy theories to the masses.

(Though part of me wants to believe in the racist great replacement theory, as long as Carlson would be among the first to be replaced.)

But what's most ludicrous about Carlson and Knowles claiming Buttigieg isn't gay is the reason for his alleged lying: Choosing gayness is a shrewd political move.

Sure. Just as shrewd as picking Sarah Palin for your running mate.

In 2025, being gay is still an impediment to political office, even in liberal areas. For one thing, people might be willing to vote for you, but they worry whether others will.

If he runs for president again, Buttigieg will be defying the odds. I can see him consenting to join Carlson's podcast. If Carlson asks him about what he likes in bed, Buttigieg should say only, "Chasten. And sheets that don't ride up."