While the nation faces the implications of a second Donald Trump administration, there are meaningful victories to celebrate down the ballot, including groundbreaking LGBTQ+ firsts.
The 2024 election cycle marked a significant moment for LGBTQ+ political representation in the United States. On election night, numerous queer and transgender candidates achieved historic victories, setting new standards for diversity and inclusivity in political offices nationwide.
Political Representation Across the Spectrum
Keturah Herron: First out LGBTQ+ person of color elected to the Kentucky State Senate, and a former ACLU policy strategist who championed Breonna’s Law.
Rashaun Kemp: Georgia’s first out gay Black legislator, bringing his rich background in education to the state level.
Sarah McBride: The first out transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress, known for her history-making advocacy as a Delaware State Senator.
Gabby Salinas: First out LGBTQ+ woman and Latinx elected to the Tennessee legislature, championing healthcare, education, and public safety.
Molly Cook: First out LGBTQ+ Texas Senator, committed to LGBTQ+ rights, abortion rights, and environmental justice.
Julie Johnson: Texas’s first out LGBTQ+ member of Congress, known for her work forming the state’s LGBTQ+ caucus.
Aime Wichtendahl: First out transgender person in the Iowa legislature, advocating against culture war politics.
Emily Randall: First out LGBTQ+ Latina in Congress, set to represent Washington state and bring a unique perspective to federal policy.
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