These trans and non-binary officials helped push the "Rainbow Wave" this election season
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Election Day proved to be a blue landslide, with Democrats taking control of the House. This election also saw a wave of trans and non-binary politicians elected, who are making headlines for their historic wins this year.
The results, deemed the unprecedented “Rainbow Wave,” offer some hope as the community has undergone attacks from conservative and MAGA-led groups.
Get to know some of the elected officials vowing to champion LGBTQ+ rights and protections in their new positions across the country at a time when it’s needed more than ever.
Allison Montgomery (Alabama)
Meanwhile, Alabama showed out for Democrat Allison Montgomery, who was up against Republican incumbent Phillip K. Rigsby. Montgomery is the state’s first out transgender lawmaker.
Sarah McBride (Delaware)
Voters in Delaware have re-elected Democratic Congresswoman Sarah McBride. The trailblazing official made history in 2024 with her victory.
Quinnie Pérez (Florida)
Quinnie Pérez won a seat on the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District board, which promotes conservation and management of soil and water. Pérez is the daughter of Mexican immigrants and made history as the first out trans person to be elected to public office.
Bentley Hudgins (Georgia)
In Georgia, voters have elected Bentley Hudgins to the state House in District 90. This makes them the first out transgender and nonbinary official to enter the Georgia General Assembly.
@bentleyforus Update - we won!
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Joanna Whaley (Michigan)
Hospital chaplain turned politician Joanna Whaley is the first trans person to be elected to the state legislature. She won in the race for House District 2 against Republican Ron Kokinda.
Jaelynn Scott (Washington)
Washington has elected its first trans state lawmaker this election cycle. She is also the first out Black trans lawmaker elected for state House District 37. She has a background in Black- and trans led civil rights nonprofits.
Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford (Wisconsin)
Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford defeated Republican Nina Chat in the race for state House District 76. She will be the first transgender person elected to the state legislature.