In a remarkable turn of events during last night’s elections, the representation of transgender individuals in government reached an unprecedented milestone. Six openly transgender candidates emerged victorious, elevating the total number of trans individuals holding elected office in the United States to 23. Although there remains considerable progress to be made in enhancing this representation, these six wins mark a significant and historic advancement.
This surge in representation is particularly inspiring given that many of these candidates faced opponents who ran anti-trans campaigns. The election results clearly indicate that voters are rejecting divisive tactics that undermine the rights of their fellow citizens.
Victorious Candidates
Here’s a look at the victorious candidates from last night:
- Danica Roem, a Delegate in Virginia, secured reelection after making history as the first openly transgender person to win a seat in a state legislature. During her previous term, Roem championed Medicaid expansion for her constituents, and her reelection saw voters also approve her initiative, especially poignant given her opponent’s attempts to leverage LGBTQ+ healthcare as a campaign issue.
- In Massachusetts, Holly Ryan made history by becoming the first openly transgender person elected to the Newton City Council.
- Similarly, Donna Price was elected to the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors in Virginia, also making her the first trans person to serve on that body.
- Several incumbent trans politicians also secured their positions once again. Aime Wichtendahl, who represents Hiawatha, Iowa, was reelected to the City Council, having been the first openly transgender person elected to any political office in Iowa.
- Lizbeth Deselm, a member of the Melrose School Committee in Massachusetts, retained her seat for a second term, while Gerri Cannon, who serves as a New Hampshire state Representative, was reelected to her local school board.
“While some political operatives are attempting to use trans issues as a wedge for the 2020 elections, voters nationwide are choosing to empower trans voices,” stated Mayor Jamie Roberts, President & CEO of the LGBTQ Victory Fund, in a press release. “The success of these candidates—across both red and blue states—serves as a powerful message against those employing fear tactics for their own gain.”
Roberts emphasized that trans candidates resonate with voters due to their authenticity and focus on community concerns. With an unprecedented number of trans individuals expected to run for office in 2020, the momentum for representation continues to build.
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In summary, last night’s elections herald a new era for trans representation in government, showing that voters are ready to support candidates who genuinely represent their communities.