Record Numbers of LGBTQ+ Candidates Seek Office as Rights face Renewed Threats
Across California and the nation, a surge of LGBTQ+ individuals are running for office, fueled by escalating attacks on queer rights and a determination to safeguard hard-won progress. From local councils to statewide races, these candidates represent a diverse array of experiences and backgrounds, united by a sense of urgency and obligation.
The increase in LGBTQ+ political hopefuls comes as former President Trump advances policies outlined in “Project 2025,” wich critics say target immigrants, Latinos, and LGBTQ+ individuals. After decades of gains in legal protections and social acceptance, LGBTQ+ advocates fear a rollback of rights, prompting a proactive response at the ballot box. This year’s election cycle is poised to be a critical test of the community’s political power and resilience.
In Los Angeles,several candidates are vying for the seat being vacated by State Sen.Maria Durazo. Among them are Juan Camacho, a 44-year-old Echo Park resident and gay Mexican immigrant, who arrived in the U.S. as a toddler and later gained citizenship through President Reagan’s amnesty program. Camacho stated he aims to leverage his experience and status to advocate for vulnerable communities. ”I understand the fear that undocumented and mixed-status families feel, and I want to use my privilege as a citizen now to push back,” he said.
Also stepping up is former Palm Springs Mayor Lisa Middleton, who participated in a training event for LGBTQ+ candidates in Los Angeles alongside LGBTQ+ Victory Fund president Evan Low, West Hollywood city Councilmember Danny Hang, Culver City Councilmember Bubba Fish, and Virginia State Sen. Danica Roem.
Veteran California legislative leader Toni Atkins, currently running for governor, expressed both dismay and renewed determination in the face of recent attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, particularly those targeting transgender individuals. ”It’s what it’s always been: We want housing and healthcare and we want equal opportunity and we want to be seen as contributing members of society,” Atkins said. “We have a responsibility to be visible and, as harvey Milk said, to ‘give them hope.'” Atkins emphasized the importance of visibility and continued advocacy after 50 years of LGBTQ+ rights gains in the U.S.
