Hi, Joseph. It seems like you’re reacting to an argument that I didn’t actually make. Nowhere do I say that Buttigieg is not “gay enough” for me — whatever that means. My central premise is, again, that Buttigieg engages in covering (downplaying a known, stigmatized identity) and that these actions hold implications for LGBTQ people and the attainment of civil rights. Not all LGBTQ representation is automatically good; there are always pros and cons. Thus, it’s necessary to critically examine Buttigieg’s self-presentation.

I think you’re using my piece to state a personal opinion about the American political left that has nothing to do with what I wrote.