Are Republicans “dragging” down small business revenue?

From moderate Republicans to MAGAs, the G.O.P. touts itself as pro-business. Job creation, economic prosperity, and fiscal conservatism are cornerstones of the party. At the same time, lawmakers from the right have been laser-focused on limiting a significant economy within the state’s food and restaurant business: drag. 

The economy of drag isn’t well known, but there is no questioning the money that goes into it: Drag performers buy expensive stagewear, wigs that cost hundreds of dollars, makeup and other accessories. The hosting venue has to hire staff, from servers and bartenders to DJs and security. They purchase more liquor for drag shows, many of which are held on slower nights or during the day when business owners said the club or bar otherwise would be empty. 

Patrons often pay for parking, ride shares and dinners out before the show. Multiply this by the number of shows statewide and throughout the year—drag has become a cash cow.