rights
Trump's ambassador mocked over warning that jet skis pose "serious risk" of sexual assault
By Daniel Villarreal at LGBTQ Nation
· June 16, 2026
· 2 min read
In a bizarre video that is being compared to a Saturday Night Live sketch, the office of the U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas, led by appointee Herschel Walker, warned Americans visiting the archipelagic country that "Jet ski rentals pose a serious risk of injury, death, and sexual assault.” In the vi
Key takeaway Ambassador to The Bahamas, led by appointee Herschel Walker, warned Americans visiting the archipelagic country that "Jet ski rentals pose a serious risk of injury, death, and sexual assault.
Why this matters
The warning issued by the U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas about the risks associated with jet ski rentals, including sexual assault, has sparked widespread ridicule on social media. However, this controversy also highlights the broader issue of safety and security for LGBTQ+ travelers, particularly in countries with varying levels of legal protections and social acceptance. The fact that the U.S. government has banned its employees from renting jet skis in The Bahamas suggests a legitimate concern for safety, but the awkward phrasing of the warning has undermined its credibility. For LGBTQ+ individuals, who may already face increased risks of harassment and violence while traveling, it is crucial to have access to reliable and accurate information about safety concerns. The National LGBTQ Task Force and other organizations provide valuable resources and guidance for LGBTQ+ travelers, and it is essential to consult these sources when planning trips abroad.
About this story
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Category: rights ·
Published: June 16, 2026 ·
Source: LGBTQ Nation ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? In a bizarre video that is being compared to a Saturday Night Live sketch, the office of the U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas, led by appointee Herschel Walker, warned Americans visiting the archipelagic country that "Jet ski rentals pose a serious risk of injury, death, and sexual assault.” In the vi
When was this published? This article was first published on June 16, 2026 by LGBTQ Nation and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Daniel Villarreal at LGBTQ Nation. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .