As the buzz of the election recedes, the historical milestones are still tremendously impactful. 2018 saw a record number of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender candidates run for office, with Christine Hallquist making history as the first transgender candidate to be nominated for a governorship by a major party. There were more than 430 openly LGBTQ people who ran for office at every level of government in 2018 & several transgender women appeared on ballots across the United States. This “rainbow wave” of LGBTQ candidates is a big step in the right direction; we need more LGBTQ people representing the constituents & sitting in the room while decisions that directly impact the community are being made. The increase in candidates & supporters helps pave the way for more transgender candidates in future elections.

Here are several inspiring & informative articles:

A ‘Rainbow Wave’? 2018 Has More L.G.B.T. Candidates Than Ever

Washington Post: In 2018, transgender women are running for governor, Congress and more

Huffington Post: Historic Number Of LGBTQ Candidates Won Primaries In 2018 Midterms

New York Times: Christine Hallquist, a Transgender Woman, Wins Vermont Governor’s Primary