According to reporting by The Advocate, U.S. Representatives Buddy Carter and Mike Collins—both outspoken critics of transgender rights—appear in archival yearbooks from the 1970s and 1980s wearing dresses and wigs. The images were verified using names, schools, and graduation details. The revelations come as Carter and Collins compete in a Republican primary to challenge Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, who is an LGBTQ+ ally. The voting will take place on May 19.
Critics say the images highlight a contradiction between the lawmakers’ past behavior and their current political positions. Both have supported legislation restricting transgender rights, including measures targeting gender-affirming care and transgender participation in sports. In response to these photos, Collins’ communications director said the photo reflected “lighthearted humor,” while Carter’s office declined to confirm or deny the images. As one GLAAD spokesperson noted, “It’s a no-brainer that anyone who participates in this part of LGBTQ culture should support basic protections for LGBTQ people. Anything less is hypocrisy.”
