Republican critics have targeted Marni von Wilpert, a Democratic candidate for Congress in California's 48th Congressional District, for holding a campaign fundraiser at a San Diego nightclub known for its LGBTQ+ nightlife and adult-themed branding. The venue, Gossip Grill, features events such as "Fi---r me Fridays" and menu items with suggestive names.
Christian Martinez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, stated that the choice of venue reflects an "out of touch" and "radical campaign." Martinez further accused Wilpert of promoting a "perverted agenda" that includes "hormone treatments on kids, shuts parents out and puts sexual content in front of young children."
Wilpert lists "LGBTQ+ Rights" as a top priority on her campaign website. She has pledged to work towards the passage of the Equality Act to ensure nationwide protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and to combat legislative efforts such as bans on gender-affirming care and attempts to restrict LGBTQ+ students in schools. Her campaign platform also includes restructuring Immigration and Customs Enforcement and addressing low company wages.
This stance and her history of supporting LGBTQ+ visibility have garnered endorsements from various LGBTQ+-aligned organizations, including Equality California, Equality PAC, the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, and the Human Rights Campaign. Equality California cited her record on the San Diego City Council, where she defended access to inclusive library resources and opposed censorship, as a basis for their endorsement.
In her previous role as a city council member, Wilpert was involved in efforts to maintain and expand Pride-related materials in San Diego public libraries. Following an incident where a library's LGBTQ+ book collection was removed, Wilpert advocated for the replacement of the books and pushed for increased Pride displays in 36 San Diego public libraries. She expressed shock at the removal of such content, stating that it was reminiscent of actions expected in more conservative regions rather than San Diego, and that denying access to LGBTQ+-affirming books is a form of discrimination.
Fox News Digital reported that Wilpert did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding her venue choice or its appropriateness for a congressional campaign.