JUST IN: Is Josh Seiter’s anti-trans “social experiment” solely a form of retaliation against his ex from Drag Race?
Josh Seiter’s “anti-trans social experiment” likely reflects a combination of personal animus and a misguided desire to provoke reaction, rather than any thoughtful commentary on the transgender community. Seiter, known for his appearance on *The Bachelorette* and his brief involvement with reality TV, generated significant controversy with his 2023 social media post, in which he claimed to conduct an “experiment” by presenting himself as anti-trans to see how people would react.
The primary context for understanding Seiter’s motivations comes from his public history with his ex, *RuPaul’s Drag Race* alum, *Alyssa Edwards*. Seiter had briefly dated Edwards, and there were reports of a tumultuous breakup, which may have triggered feelings of resentment. Seiter has since been vocal about his views, and the “experiment” in question seems to be a retaliatory response to the LGBTQ+ community, of which Edwards is a part. His provocative social media stunt—though clearly attention-seeking—appears designed to escalate the drama between him and Edwards, as well as attract attention to his personal brand, which has struggled to maintain relevance post-reality TV.
That said, Seiter’s actions cannot be excused merely as a form of revenge. The framing of his actions as an “experiment” disregards the real harm such statements can have on marginalized communities. Anti-trans rhetoric is harmful regardless of its intended purpose, and Seiter’s claim of an “experiment” is both tone-deaf and irresponsible. Rather than contributing to meaningful discourse or shedding light on complex social issues, Seiter’s approach is a cynical and damaging tactic that undermines the ongoing struggle for trans rights and visibility.
In summary, while his motivations may stem from a personal vendetta or desire for attention, Seiter’s anti-trans actions are more than just retaliation—they’re a dangerous attempt to manipulate public discourse for self-serving reasons.
