Two New York Democrats running in a competitive House primary say they support federal funding for Drag Story Hour and similar LGBTQ arts and education programs, as records show New York City and state agencies have already spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars connected to the program.
Rep. Dan Goldman and former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander both expressed support for federal funding in responses to a questionnaire from the Jim Owles LGBT Liberal Democratic Club.
Goldman said current House leadership does not allow member funding for LGBTQIA+ programming, but said he would support programs such as Drag Story Hour if Democrats regain control of the House.
He also said he would welcome the chance to host such an event.
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Lander said he supported Drag Story Hour events at Brooklyn Public Library branches while serving on the City Council. His campaign said he would support federal funding for libraries, arts and culture programs, including Drag Story Hour.
Drag Story Hour programs typically feature drag performers reading books or leading arts activities for children. Supporters say the events promote inclusion, creativity, gender diversity and acceptance of differences.
Drag Artists for Expression NYC, formerly known as Drag Story Hour NYC, says it partners with public and private schools, libraries and community groups across New York City.
According to the group, it produced 165 readings in 2025 and served more than 5,000 young people across the five boroughs. The organization says its programs include public school readings, library events, bilingual programming and events for youth in foster care.
The program has also faced criticism and protests. Some parents have objected to drag events involving children, especially when they say they were not notified in advance. In some cases, events have drawn threats or security concerns.
Records cited in the report show New York City and state agencies have provided nearly $700,000 connected to Drag Story Hour or related programming over several years.
Critics argue that taxpayer money should not be used for programs they view as politically or culturally divisive.
Republican strategist John McLaughlin said GOP candidates are likely to campaign on the issue, arguing that most voters do not want public money used for programs they associate with gender ideology.
Supporters counter that public funding for arts, library and youth programs often includes a wide range of cultural events and that LGBTQ programming should not be excluded.
The debate comes as cultural issues continue to play a major role in congressional races. Republicans have increasingly attacked Democrats over gender identity, school programming and taxpayer funding, while Democrats argue they are defending inclusion and civil rights.
For Goldman and Lander, support for Drag Story Hour could help with progressive voters in New York, but it may also give Republicans a campaign issue in the broader national fight over education, culture and federal spending.
Why It Matters
The issue reflects a larger national debate over how taxpayer money should be used for cultural and educational programming. It also shows how local LGBTQ programs can become flashpoints in congressional campaigns and national culture-war politics.
What Comes Next
The issue could become part of the New York House primary and broader midterm messaging. If Democrats regain control of the House, funding rules for LGBTQ arts and education programs may become a renewed political fight.
NY Dems running for House want fed funding for ‘Drag Story Hour’ as city, state spends $700K https://t.co/XbZFaXt69i pic.twitter.com/jJklJhiuR2
— New York Post (@nypost) May 26, 2026
