History-making LGBTQ legislators to be sworn in to 119th Congress

Sarah McBride is set to make history as the first openly transgender member of Congress, representing Delaware's sole congressional district in the House of Representatives. McBride's election comes after her tenure in the Delaware state Senate, where she made significant strides for transgender representation at the state level. Joining her are two other groundbreaking lawmakers: Julie Johnson, the first LGBTQ+ member from the South, and Emily Randall, the first LGBTQ Latina in Congress, both of whom have an established record in advocating for LGBTQ rights.

The 118th Congress will feature a record number of openly LGBTQ legislators, totaling 13, amidst a national climate marked by increasing anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and violence. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has tracked over 500 bills deemed "anti-LGBTQ" in various state legislatures, reflecting a troubling trend, particularly concerning legislation that targets transgender individuals.

McBride and her colleagues are stepping into a challenging political landscape. Notably, Republican Rep. Nancy Mace proposed a bill to restrict transgender women from using women's restrooms at the U.S. Capitol, citing safety concerns linked to McBride's historic entry into Congress. Although this bill is now considered dead, McBride has asserted her focus will remain on representing her constituents rather than engaging in disputes about bathroom policies.

Following a request for clarity regarding restroom use, House Speaker Mike Johnson reiterated restrictions for transgender women in Capitol facilities, though the specifics of enforcement remain vague. In response, McBride emphasized her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Delawareans, stating, "I'm not here to fight about bathrooms."

LGBTQ advocacy groups, including the Human Rights Campaign, have praised the incoming legislators for their resilience in the face of unprecedented opposition to LGBTQ rights. Kelley Robinson, the organization's president, highlighted the importance of having diverse voices in Congress that have traditionally been marginalized, underscoring the significant impact these leaders can have in advancing equality and civil rights for all Americans.