The United States has seen an unprecedented surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation this year, with a pronounced focus on targeting transgender and non-binary individuals. While these bills have wrought adverse consequences, including deteriorating mental health and heightened community tensions, an unexpected outcome has emerged: a surge in transgender and non-binary political candidates.
A recent study conducted by The Victory Institute, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group, in collaboration with Loyola Marymount University reveals that more transgender, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals are entering the political arena in response to these anti-LGBTQ+ bills. These candidates are vying for positions ranging from local school boards to state governorships.
The study, encompassing nearly 500 LGBTQ+ political candidates over the last five years, delved into the motivations behind their decision to run for office. Among LGBTQ+ candidates, an overwhelming majority (79.3%) cited a desire to effect change within their local communities as their primary motivator. Approximately 45.8% expressed a drive to enhance LGBTQ+ representation in elected positions. Notably, transgender women (14.3%) and gender non-conforming and non-binary candidates (10.3%) were more likely to attribute their candidacy to the surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
This heightened motivation among these groups could be linked to their status as the primary targets of recent anti-LGBTQ+ bills, which have encompassed bans on gender-affirming care for minors and stringent restrictions on participation in sports. Furthermore, the study highlighted that 79.6% of LGBTQ+ candidates expressed concerns about increased harassment or attacks when running for office. This apprehension was most pronounced among trans women (28.6%) and gender-nonconforming or non-binary candidates (38.2%).
Despite these fears, over 60% of trans women and gender non-conforming and non-binary candidates reported that voters were more likely to support them because of their gender identity. As anti-LGBTQ+ bills continue to proliferate across the US, these candidates will rely on the steadfast support of their communities.
Notwithstanding the formidable challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals seeking office, there has been a remarkable upswing in LGBTQ+ representation in elected positions over the past five years, with a 68% increase. As these candidates take their place in the political landscape, they carry with them the aspirations of a community determined to overcome adversity and create a more inclusive society.