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Candiace Dillard Bassett first gained national attention as a contestant in the Miss USA pageant. Her charisma, poise, and ambition later led her to join the cast of The Real Housewives of Potomac in 2018. Bassett quickly became a fan favorite for six seasons before announcing her departure from RHOP in March 2024. Fans know the singer and actor for her honesty, drama, and fierce loyalty to loved ones. Soon, Bassett will have another human to love: her baby. Before becoming a mom, however, the 37-year-old is partying it up with castmate Karen Huger.

Wearing a blue suit, Candiace Dillard Bassett and Karen Huger laughs and claps at a drag brunch
Candiace Dillard Bassett, Karen Huger, and VinChelle at the Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch and Voter Registration | Shannon Finney/Getty Images

On August 25, Bassett gathered with friends and fans for The Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch and Voter Registration. Taking place at Franklin Hall in Washington D.C., the TV personality hosted a group of gorgeous and flamboyant drag queens. The massive beer hall served as the perfect backdrop for the large gathering.

Bravo stars Candiace Dillard Bassett and Karen Huger stand together for a photo before a drag brunch
Candiace Dillard Bassett and Karen Huger of ‘The Real Housewives of Potomac’ on August 25, 2024 in Washington, D.C. | Shannon Finney/Getty Images

RHOP stars Bassett and Huger drew a crowd for the rowdy party, which raised awareness of voter registration. Huger donned the Claudette Floral Embroidered Suit Set by Fashion Nova. Fans know the “Grande Dame” for her high-low style, and this light blue look was no exception. Huger paired the outfit with a white satin tank top, diamond earrings, and matching light blue nail polish.

Singer Candiace Dillard Bassett and VinChelle perform at the Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch
Candiace Dillard Bassett and VinChelle at the Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch | Shannon Finney/Getty Image

Bassett wore a bubblegum pink mini dress with a midriff cutout. The preppy look featured silver buttons down the chest and a string of pearls. Painting her nails a matching pink, the HUSH actor cradled her baby bump throughout the brunch. Bassett danced and laughed while encouraging guests to check their voter registration status.

Wearing a blue suit, Karen Huger laughs and claps at a drag brunch
Karen Huger on August 25, 2024 | Shannon Finney/Getty Image

As Bassett headed home from the party, she explained why everyone should check their voter status before voting day, November 5. Bassett took to her Instagram to share what happened with several brunch attendees who checked their voter registration:

“There were several voters whose names had been purged from the rolls, and they did not know. And they came to our event this afternoon and had their voter registration status checked and found out that they were not registered and were able to re-register and ensure that they are ready to go to those polls on November 5th.

It gave me chills because that’s what today was about. Yes, it was a drag show. Yes, we had an amazing time. But truly, today was about ensuring that American citizens could carry out their civic duty and do so without roadblocks, disenfranchisement, issues, drama.

– Candiace dillard Bassett on voter registration

Bassett exclaimed, “Oh, child, the baby’s moving!” She continued, “This is my call to you to make sure to check your voter registration and ensure that you are properly registered … You may think it is, but it may not be. If you’ve moved, if you’ve changed your address, or if you changed your name — you can be purged from rolls for so many reasons. So just check.”

Drag performer VinChelle and Candiace Dillard Bassett dance at the Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch
Drag performer VinChelle and Candiace Dillard Bassett at the Real Housewives of Politics Drag Brunch and Voter Registration | Shannon Finney/Getty Images

Fans knew Candiace Dillard Bassett for her quick wit and strong opinions on The Real Housewives of Potomac. So we’re unsurprised that she’s speaking about such an important issue leading up to election day. Beyond acting and advocacy work, the “Fine Whine” singer has released several singles highlighting her powerful vocals.

Singer Candiace Dillard Bassett wears a sheer jumpsuit and sings during a Washington D.C. event
Singer Candiace Dillard Bassett onstage during the NBJC Equity March on June 15, 2024 in Washington, D.C. | Brian Stukes/Getty Images

Candiace and her husband, celebrity chef Chris Bassett, haven’t shared their baby’s exact due date or gender. However, they did reveal that he or she is due this fall. Judging by the 5-foot-3 Bravo star’s baby bump, their little one will be due sometime between late September to mid-October.

Bravo stars Chris Bassett and Candiace Dillard Bassett pose for a photo together before filming Watch What Happens Live
Chris Bassett and Candiace Dillard Bassett before ‘Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen’ | Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty Images
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Candiace previously told People, “With a whirlwind of new opportunities and responsibilities on my plate, I have decided to take a break from RHOP.” She added, “I am filled with gratitude for the enriching friendships, personal growth and moments of introspection that have defined this journey.”