At least one show was cancelled as a result.
Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh has affirmed that US military drag shows are cancelled.
President Joe Biden’s administration has stopped US military bases from hosting such shows amid criticism from some Republicans.
This comes as part of a broader push in conservative-led states targeting LGBTQ+ celebrations.
In a statement on June 1, 2023, Ms Singh said hosting drag shows is “inconsistent with regulations regarding the use of (Defence Department) resources”.
At least one show was cancelled as a result.
According a to Facebook event, organisers of an event at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada cancelled a drag show that was organised in accordance with Pride Month, which takes place in June.
In her statement, Ms Singh did not directly address LGBTQ+ rights but said the Defence Department was “proud to serve alongside any and every young American who takes the oath that puts their life on the line in defence of our country”.
Matt Gaetz, US Representative for Florida’s 1st congressional district, had criticised top Pentagon leaders earlier in 2023 and questioned them about drag shows.
He tweeted that the cancellation was a “HUGE VICTORY!”
He added: “Drag shows should not be taking place on military installations with taxpayer dollars PERIOD!”
Drag shows feature entertainers who dress and act as a different gender.
They are often part of Pride events and can include colourfully-dressed drag queens reading books to children.
Supporters say they celebrate people of different sexual orientations and promote acceptance.
Opponents have accused drag show organisers of trying to “sexualise” children. Drag shows sometimes draw protesters and a group of Republican-led legislatures have passed bills in recent months trying to ban or restrict them.
Nellis Air Force Base has previously hosted drag shows.
Approximately 180 people attended a similar show in 2021.
The Pentagon’s move to cancel the show this week led the Human Rights Campaign, which advocates for LGBTQ+ civil rights, to directly criticise Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin.
In a statement, the group said: “Before today, Secretary Austin has been unwavering in his support for LGBTQ+ Americans who proudly serve in uniform.
“However, instead of truly standing up for our community on the first day of Pride, he chose to side with the politics of fear and discrimination peddled by extreme members of Congress.”