Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) is now in her second term representing Colorado’s third congressional district. For this, she is popularly known for her stance on such issues as gun rights, green energy, Covid mask and vaccine mandates, trans youth healthcare, abortion, sex education, trans and queer liberation, and same-sex marriage.
Boebert is a self-declared “recovering sinner” who has spoken out against the idea of an independent judiciary and championed church power over state power. Boebert, before entering politics, was an assistant manager at a McDonald in Rifle, Colorado, & later a natural gas drilling company.
She is currently trending on social media because a performance she attended at Denver’s Ellie Caulkins Opera House last week ended with security escorting her from the premises.
Last week, Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert was asked to leave a musical production in Denver after disruptive behavior. Accompanying her was Quinn Gallagher, a local businessman who owns a prominent LGBTQ+ bar in the city called The Siren.
This high-profile date has thrust Gallagher into the national political conversation and shone an unwelcome spotlight on his personal life. However, those familiar with Denver’s nightlife scene know Gallagher’s story goes much deeper.
Quinn Gallagher’s Background
Quinn Gallagher has long been a fixture in Denver’s vibrant theater and arts community. A Colorado native, he developed an early love of the performing arts and, after college, decided to pursue his passions through entrepreneurship.
In 2011, Gallagher opened The Siren in the heart of downtown Denver. His vision was to create an inclusive space where all feeling of out place or judged could freely express themselves through live entertainment. Under Gallagher’s leadership, The Siren became renowned for its eclectic lineup of drag shows, musical performances, and drag king/queen competitions.
Through cultivating an atmosphere of acceptance, The Siren rapidly grew to be one of Denver’s most popular LGBTQ+ bars. Gallagher prided himself on providing a social outlet and a safe space for minority groups. He advocated for inclusive policies and regularly participated in civic efforts promoting tolerance.
Boebert and Gallagher’s Relationship
Boebert, since her 2020 election, has become renowned for inflammatory rhetoric and opposition to progressive causes. She has voted against bills protecting LGBTQ+ rights and voiced support for anti-trans policies.
Her disruptive behavior at the musical, subsequently revealed to involve Gallagher, immediately drew widespread backlash. Critics questioned how the owner of a gay bar could align himself with someone promoting such harmful agendas. The Siren was quickly review-bombed with accusations of hypocrisy.
When reached for comment, Gallagher stated the date was purely personal and not meant as a political endorsement. However, the damage was already done. As a prominent figure locally, Gallagher’s decision to publicly socialize with a figure espousing opposing views understandably upset many patrons and community allies.
What Does The Future of Gallagher Hold
It remains to be seen if this controversial date marks a change in Gallagher’s views or was simply a lapse in better judgment. As a businessman, he may feel engaging politicians is necessary regardless of opinions. However, the livelihood and safe space he created relied on advocating for social justice.
By consorting with an individual spearheading reverse progress, Gallagher unintentionally undermined his establishment’s and partnership’s mission. Only time will tell if this scrutiny impacts The Siren long-term or proves an isolated, albeit highly publicized, misstep for its owner.