Maria Wilkinson lives in Concord.

What does the gay GOP look like? While we mostly equate the LGBTQIA+ community to be upheld by Democrats and an issue owned by the left, there exist members of the gay and lesbian community that vote red.

Those who are both gay or lesbian and Republican tend to identify as part of the gay community, but within the acronym of LGBTQ, don’t necessarily recognize the Q or T. Popular hashtags that follow this subculture are #LGBnotT or #LGBnotQueer.

With the upcoming election, there are a few Republicans who identify as gay and are running for office. No matter your political identity, running as an openly gay/lesbian person is admirable and courageous, and I am proud that there are members of our community being elected to serve in New Hampshire.

Though, as a queer woman, I disagree with recent articles and conversations that being a member of our community does not mean you are an advocate for all in our community. Specifically, this conversation has been shaped around the recent passing of House Bill 619 which prohibits children from undergoing gender-affirming care. This ban takes away parents, transgender minors, and doctors from making individualized healthcare decisions that could address the needs of transgender youth.

The nature of the LGBTQIA+ community is one of inclusivity. As outsiders of a larger community historically, being LGBTQIA+ is one community that has been built as a safe space for all. Simply, the idea of LGB and not Q or T is weaponizing the language that built the foundation of our community and it saddens me that those who identify as gay and lesbian but do not wish to accept all in our community are still struggling with acceptance as that battle demonstrates deeper inner turmoil that still needs to be addressed.

For those running this election and who identify as members of the gay GOP, my message to you is that I hope you find peace.