Chappell Roan’s Republican uncle selected as Missouri House majority leader
Chappell Roan. (Getty Images)
Missouri state Rep. Darin Chappell, Chappell Roan’s uncle, was selected on Wednesday to lead the chamber’s Republican majority as Missouri House majority leader.
Roan, who is an out lesbian and vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, previously called out both major political parties during the 2024 presidential election, citing “problems on both sides.” She later clarified that she would vote for former Vice President Kamala Harris over President Trump.
However her uncle has supported numerous pieces of conservative legislation, including restrictions on abortion access and co-sponsored legislation aimed at blocking public funding for abortion providers.
What else do we know about Darin Chappell?
Darin Chappell campaigned against abortion access, gun control, and critical race theory in schools. He represents Missouri’s 137th House District.
Out Magazine reports that Chappell is a Navy veteran, was first elected in 2022, and secured 70 percent of his district’s vote in the 2026 midterm election.
The same report says Chappell previously cosponsored legislation that would have blocked public funding for abortion providers.
What do we know about Chappell Roan’s politics?
Roan is a Grammy-winning singer whose real name is Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, and she is an openly queer woman and a vocal LGBTQ + advocate.
Roan has spoken up for trans rights, backed Kamala Harris despite having criticised both parties, and declined an invitation to perform at the White House’s Pride celebration as a protest at the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza.
Earlier this week, Chappell Roan raised $2 million for trans youth and LGBTQIA+ communities through her two-night Super Graphic Spectacular fundraiser.
Republicans still control the Missouri House with 95 seats, but lost their two-thirds majority needed to override the state’s gubernatorial vetoes without Democratic support after Democrats flipped 16 state House seats.
