Anti-LGBTQIA+ Rep. Ken Calvert Faces Tough Challenge From Out Gay Opponent Will Rollins In Palm Springs Race
“Ken Calvert is running from the debate stage because he is afraid to have to answer for his three decades of corruption, enriching himself while he raised your taxes.” – Will Rollins posted on Instagram
The battle for control of Congress could hinge on the outcome in California’s 41st District, where out gay terrorism prosecutor Will Rollins is locked in a tight rematch against Republican incumbent Ken Calvert.
Calvert, recognised as one of the most corrupt members of Congress, has held the seat for three decades, but the district’s redrawing to include the LGBTQIA+ haven of Palm Springs has put his reign in jeopardy.
Polls consistently show Rollins and Calvert in a dead heat, with Rollins raising an impressive $10.7 million compared to Calvert’s $7.3 million according to Politico. Rollins’ strong fundraising allows him to compete in the district’s more conservative areas, where he struggled in his narrow 2022 loss.
Rollins launched his campaign early, with a biting ad parodying Calvert’s corruption scandals. In 2006, Calvert was caught using earmarks to increase the value of his own land holdings. Despite this, Calvert refuses to debate Rollins.
Calvert’s anti-LGBTQIA+ record is also under scrutiny. He outed his closeted Democratic opponent to win his first term and has consistently voted against LGBTQIA+ rights. However, his votes have shifted recently, likely due to the district’s changing demographics.
As the race enters its final weeks, Rollins is out meeting voters while Calvert appears at Trump rallies. The outcome could determine which party controls the House and the future of LGBTQIA+ rights in Congress.
