A federal judge in Texas has struck down a state law that sought to restrict drag performances, ruling it unconstitutional and referencing the enduring appeal of singer Dolly Parton in his decision. U.S. District Judge David Hittner, appointed by President Ronald Reagan, found that the law, which made it a crime to present a "sexually oriented" performance on public property or in the presence of minors, violated the First Amendment.
Hittner's ruling specifically cited Parton, a prominent figure in country music, noting her broad appeal and the past criticisms she faced as a "voluptuous sex symbol." The judge wrote that "erotic" elements are present in numerous popular performances and could be subject to penalties under the law, implying a broad potential impact.
One of the plaintiffs in the case was drag performer Brigitte Bandit, who impersonates Parton. Bandit celebrated the ruling on social media, stating, "Drag is free speech, b****." Bandit is scheduled to perform at an Austin bar in honor of Parton.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, whose office defended the law, is currently campaigning for a U.S. Senate seat. Texas Senate Bill 12, which Paxton's office supported, allowed for fines of up to $10,000 for businesses hosting prohibited events, with performers facing potential misdemeanor charges and jail time. This is not the first time the law has faced legal challenges. Hittner initially blocked the law in 2023, but an appeals court revived it last year, prompting the judge to reconsider.
Texas is one of several states that have recently enacted legislation targeting drag performances. Tennessee, for example, passed similar restrictive laws, which country artist Kelsea Ballerini publicly opposed by performing with drag queens at the 2023 CMT Awards.
Paxton's legal challenges extend beyond this ruling, as he faces allegations of adultery and a past impeachment from his role as Attorney General, though he was acquitted by the Texas Senate. Despite these controversies, Paxton secured a victory in the Republican primary, appealing to Christian evangelical voters. The Republican-leaning Senate seat is considered crucial in Texas politics, with Governor Greg Abbott's campaign for a fourth term potentially driving turnout.
Dolly Parton, who passed away recently at the age of 80, was known for her distinctive style and outspokenness about her image. She once commented on her approach to fashion, stating, "I don't like to be like everybody else .. I would never stoop so low to be fashionable, that's the easiest thing in the world to do."