Viral fame is a fickle currency in American politics, and it rarely converts into actual power. For Valentina Gomez, a 26-year-old Republican who campaigned with a flamethrower and an MBA, the leap from internet provocateur to elected representative proved far more difficult than generating clicks.
Despite making national headlines for her incendiary videos, voters in Texas's 31st District delivered a crushing blow to her ambitions on primary night. Gomez, who drew attention for her aggressive remarks against the LGBTQ+ community and startling condemnation of Muslims, failed to convince Texas that she represents them.
