Reba McEntire Blasts New Tennessee Law Banning Children From Drag Shows

Reba McEntire, a country singer, has slammed a new Tennessee law that prohibits drag shows from taking place in public areas or spaces where minors can witness them.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, a Republican, signed a law onApril 1 that takes effect the same day, banning “adult cabaret entertainment,” including drag shows. State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, a co-sponsor of the bill, tweeted, “This bill gives parents the confidence to take their children to a public or private show without being blindsided by a sexualized performance.”

The Los Angeles Times asked McEntire what she thinks about the bill. “I wish they’d spend that much time and energy and money on feeding the homeless children in those two counties,” McEntire responded.

When asked if she was shocked that the bill was approved, she replied, “Disappointed.” The Times added, “You know your perspective on the drag bill could be alienating to some of your audience.”

“Boy, why? I mean, we’ve got a real problem in this country, and to be worried about men wanting to dress up as women? God bless them for wearing those high heels—I feel for them. But let’s concentrate our attention on something that really requires attention,” McEntire answered, adding, “I try to keep away from disputes and confrontations.”

A person who violates the new Tennessee law for the first time may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, with subsequent offenses being classified as a Class E felony.

In June of this year, McEntire tweeted her annoyance when organizers for a Republican party fundraiser in which South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was a guest listed her as a “special guest.”

“Without my knowledge or permission, an invitation to a political fundraiser with my name attached was sent out last night. I had, and have no plans to attend this event, and I had told the event organizers about it,” she tweeted.

“Throughout my career, I have stated that I do not get involved in politics, and that remains true today,” she added.

According to Noem’s gubernatorial campaign officials, McEntire was aware of the fundraiser.

“When it comes to confirming and listing hosts for the Governor’s events, the Kristi for Governor campaign follows standard operating procedures,” said a campaign representative, adding that there was “written confirmation” that McEntire had intended to perform.