Sarah McBride Makes History as First Openly Transgender Person Elected to Congress

Sarah McBride celebrates historic win as first openly transgender member of Congress

Delaware State Senator Sarah McBride has made history by winning her election for Delaware’s at-large House district, becoming the first openly transgender person elected to Congress. This groundbreaking victory was projected on Tuesday by Decision Desk HQ, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in U.S. politics.

McBride’s win was widely anticipated in the deeply Democratic state, where she easily defeated her Republican opponent, Josh Wahlen, a retired police officer. After securing the Democratic nomination in September with 80 percent of the vote, McBride went on to claim Delaware’s lone House seat with strong support.

In a post on the social media platform X following NBC News’ call of the race, she expressed her gratitude, writing, “Thank you, Delaware! Because of your votes and your values, I am proud to be your next member of Congress.” She emphasized the message her win sends about the need for policies that support reproductive rights, paid leave, affordable child care, accessible housing, and health care, while celebrating a democracy inclusive of all people.

McBride has been breaking barriers throughout her career. In 2020, she became the first openly transgender person elected to a state legislature in the U.S., serving as a Delaware state senator.

Sarah McBride addresses supporters after historic congressional win

Her journey as a visible leader began even earlier when she addressed the Democratic National Convention in 2016, becoming the first out trans person to speak at a major party convention. Her work and visibility have inspired more transgender individuals to run for office, and as of now, at least seven other openly transgender people have been elected to state legislatures, according to the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund.

In an interview with last year, McBride expressed hope for a future where it’s no longer noteworthy for transgender people to hold public office. “My hope is that we get to a world where it’s no longer newsworthy that people like me are in politics or get elected to public office,” McBride, 34, said.

McBride’s historic victory comes amid a contentious political climate for transgender rights in the U.S. This year, over 600 bills affecting trans people’s access to health care, education, and legal recognition were introduced in state legislatures, with 45 becoming law. In Congress, Republicans have filed dozens of bills aimed at restricting transgender rights, including anti-LGBTQ+ measures attached to key federal spending legislation.

Former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator J.D. Vance, have publicly promised to enact policies banning transgender athletes from women’s sports and prohibiting gender-affirming care for minors. Republican campaigns across the country have spent over $200 million on ads targeting transgender athletes and gender-affirming care, often using images of transgender women and drag performers without their consent, according to data from AdImpact.

Sarah McBride celebrates groundbreaking win as first openly transgender congress member

Democrats and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups celebrated McBride’s election as a victory for inclusion and progress. Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, praised McBride, saying, “As the first openly transgender person to serve in Congress, her service is a landmark achievement on the march toward equality.” Robinson emphasized that McBride’s win reflects both an increasing acceptance of transgender individuals and the recognition of her legislative skills and commitment to delivering meaningful change.

McBride’s election represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and broader LGBTQ+ acceptance in America, as supporters hope her presence in Congress will help further the cause of equality for all.