Missouri candidate blasted for anti-LGBTQ videos loses primary

Valentina Gomez, a Republican with anti-LGBTQ views, lost her Missouri secretary of state primary bid, garnering only 7.4% of the vote. Known for her controversial actions, such as burning LGBTQ-inclusive books and making inflammatory remarks, Gomez faced backlash from Democrats and LGBTQ rights groups. Despite her nearly 250,000 followers on X, she placed sixth in a crowded field. Winner Denny Hoskins, who has also supported anti-LGBTQ legislation, will face Democrat Barbara Phifer in the general election. Hoskins succeeds Jay Ashcroft, who lost his gubernatorial primary.