Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Law Restricting Drag Performances in Florida, Challenged by Governor DeSantis

A federal judge in Florida has temporarily blocked a law championed by Governor Ron DeSantis that would have restricted drag performances. The law, which was passed earlier this month, would have prohibited minors from attending “obscene live performances.”

U.S. District Judge Gregory Presnell of the Middle District of Florida granted a preliminary injunction on Friday, preventing the state from enforcing the law until a trial is held to determine its constitutionality. The injunction was requested by the owner of a Hamburger Mary’s restaurant and bar in Orlando, which regularly hosts drag shows, including family-friendly performances on Sundays.

The judge refused to dismiss the law entirely, meaning the underlying lawsuit challenging it will go forward. The governor’s office said the judge’s decision was “dead wrong” and that they would continue to defend the law.

The law was the third time this month that federal courts have enjoined laws backed by Governor DeSantis that concern gender or LGBTQ matters. The governor has been a vocal supporter of the law, claiming that it was necessary to protect minors from “obscene” performances.

The case is expected to go to trial in the coming months, and the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the state of Florida. In the meantime, the injunction prevents the state from enforcing the law until the court makes a final ruling.