19 LGBTQIA+ Candidates Running with Pride
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In 2022, LGBTQIA+ candidates ran in all 50 states and the District of Columbia for the first time. We’ve come so far in the fight for true representation in our government — but we still have a long way to go. According to the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund in early 2022, in order to reach proportional political representation, we must elect 35,000 more LGBTQIA+ candidates to office.
Luckily, we are well on our way to that goal. Last year, the midterm elections made history with the most wins for openly LGBTQIA+ candidates ever. And this Pride Month — and all year long — we’re doing everything we can to keep up the momentum. So far, 24% of our endorsed candidates are LGBTQIA+, paving the way for a more inclusive, representational, and progressive democracy.
You can read more about some of them (and donate to their campaigns) below:
COLORADO
Isabel Cruz — Lakewood City Council, Ward 2
Isabel is an experienced policy professional and community advocate running for Lakewood City Council Ward 2. As Policy Director for a statewide health advocacy nonprofit, Isabel has spent over 10 years bringing people together to advance social change. Isabel is running to co-create bold solutions with diverse community members to tackle housing, transportation, and public safety challenges in Lakewood, making it more inclusive and sustainable for all.
As a young, queer Latina running in her first election, Isabel hopes to strengthen pipelines to leadership going forward for underrepresented constituencies in Lakewood. She is committed to building a more equitable future and bringing her community-driven leadership to the city council.
Find out more about Isabel here.
INDIANA
Zach Cramer — Lawrence Common Council, District 5
Zach is a devoted father, accomplished manager, and passionate community leader. Growing up, Zach was passionate about soccer, spending countless hours playing and practicing with his friends. His love for the sport inspired him to travel the world, immersing himself in different cultures and gaining a unique perspective on global issues and diversity.
Through his community involvement, Zach recognized the discrimination and inequality faced by marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, and those living in poverty, which drove him to become a vocal advocate for social justice and equality.
Find out more about Zach here.
MASSACHUSETTS
Jacob deBlecourt — City Council, District 9, Boston
Jacob is a former City Council staffer, renter, and policy nerd who is now running for Boston City Council District 9. With nearly three years of experience as a city council staffer, Jacob has a proven track record of listening to people in crisis and creating progressive policy wins that benefit everyone. From groundbreaking tenant’s rights protections to expanded language access for all, Jacob is committed to advocating for policies that bring neighbors together rather than forcing them to move away.
Jacob is a trailblazer in more ways than one. If elected, they would become the first non-binary person to serve on the City Council and the youngest person elected to the Council in over 50 years. Their fresh perspective and commitment to progressive values make them the right choice for District 9.
Find out more about Jacob here.
MISSISSIPPI
Fabian Nelson — Mississippi House, District 66
For the past 15 years, Fabian has been the proud owner of Mississippi United Realty, a Real Estate Firm that helps first-time homebuyers achieve their dreams of homeownership. His firm has become an important part of the Byram community by offering homebuyer and financial literacy seminars, as well as mentoring small business owners in South Jackson and Byram. As a small business owner himself, Fabian understands the importance of creating jobs and advocating for economic development.
As a foster parent, Fabian is acutely aware of the daily struggles that children in the foster care system face. Having attended public schools himself and with his children attending four public schools, he understands the importance of fully funding education to provide our children with the best possible education. Fabian is also committed to advocating for affordable healthcare and the expansion of Medicaid coverage in Mississippi, particularly given the record-high hospital closures in the state.
NEW YORK
West Fox — City Council, Ward 2, Ithaca
West is a notable artist, civic activist, and community organizer hailing from the lower Manhattan area, who has recently stepped up to run for Alderperson of Ward 2 on the city of Ithaca's Common Council. With a solid background in fighting for the rights and protections of the most vulnerable, West's professional and lived experience puts them in a unique position to effect change in their community. Their advocacy work has focused on issues such as homelessness, poverty, domestic violence, police reform, abolition, reproductive rights, and disability support among others.
West is passionate about creating a world that is fair, just, and equitable for all, and they believe that this starts with creating intentional spaces that foster queer community and work towards eradicating some of the most pressing issues that plague modern society. With a BA in Philosophy and Public Affairs from Claremont McKenna College, West is well equipped to navigate policy issues and provide solutions that are evidence-based, equitable, and just.
Find out more about West here.
Alex Marion — City Council, Ward 2, Ithaca
West is a notable artist, civic activist, and community organizer hailing from the lower Manhattan area, who has recently stepped up to run for Alderperson of Ward 2 on the city of Ithaca’s Common Council. With a solid background in fighting for the rights and protections of the most vulnerable, West’s professional and lived experience puts them in a unique position to effect change in their community. Their advocacy work has focused on issues such as homelessness, poverty, domestic violence, police reform, abolition, reproductive rights, and disability support among others.
West is passionate about creating a world that is fair, just, and equitable for all, and they believe that this starts with creating intentional spaces that foster queer community and work towards eradicating some of the most pressing issues that plague modern society. With a BA in Philosophy and Public Affairs from Claremont McKenna College, West is well equipped to navigate policy issues and provide solutions that are evidence-based, equitable, and just.
Find out more about West here.
India Walton — Buffalo City Council, Masten District
India, a native of Buffalo, NY, and former Democratic nominee for Mayor, has dedicated her career to systemic change in the pursuit of justice and equity. After a decades-long career as a Registered Nurse at Children’s Hospital and Buffalo Public Schools, India worked as a community organizer advocating for police accountability, fair housing, and food justice. In 2017, she co-founded The Fruit Belt Community Land Trust, Buffalo’s first democratically run affordable housing organization, and eventually served as its Executive Director. Currently, India serves as the Strategic Director of Roots Action Civic Education, which she co-created with the Roots Action Education Fund to advance equity and civic engagement in Buffalo.
India’s experience in healthcare, community organizing, and affordable housing uniquely positions her to advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities. Her commitment to equity and justice has earned her widespread support in Buffalo and beyond.
Find out more about India here.
NORTH CAROLINA
Eliazar Posada — Carrboro Town Council
Eliazar made history in North Carolina by becoming the first openly LGBTQ Latino elected official after winning a special election on May 17, 2022. Originally from Florida, Eliazar grew up in the Rio Grande Valley in south Texas and has been living and working in Carrboro since 2016. He currently serves as the Organizing Director of Equality NC, which is the oldest statewide organization dedicated to securing rights and protections for the LGBTQ community. Additionally, he is the Founder of Posada Strategy Consulting, a consulting firm that helps nonprofit and grassroots organizations build capacity, develop programs, and create strategies around fundraising, community outreach, and advocacy.
Eliazar is committed to tackling some of the most pressing issues affecting our communities today, including Equality for All, Affordable Housing, and Equitable Public Transit. These critical issues address the core needs of those who have been underserved by our current systems. As a council member, Eliazar will continue his efforts to ensure that decisions made at the council table reflect the entire community.
Find out more about Eliazar here.
OHIO
Marcus Bedinger — City Commission, At-Large, Dayton
Marcus, a Dayton, OH resident, is a dedicated community advocate with a professional career that makes him an expert on the challenging issues faced by his community. As a retail manager, Marcus has a deep understanding of the need to raise wages and connect people to high-paying jobs with union protections. With two young children, Marcus also understands the importance of providing access to quality public schools, healthcare, and healthy food for all residents.
Marcus has worked as a congressional staffer, which provided valuable experience in navigating the complex world of government policy. He has combined his lived experience with his professional expertise to become a champion for community issues. His goal as Dayton City Commissioner is to bring lasting changes to the city, ensuring that every resident has access to the resources they need to thrive.
Find out more about Marcus here.
PENNSYLVANIA
Amanda Bakay — Lancaster City Council
Amanda, a Lancaster native, is a community advocate and leader who believes in improving systems for those who are most vulnerable. She witnessed the struggles of her single mother who had to work multiple jobs to make ends meet, which inspired her to work towards creating a better community for all.
Since January 2020, Amanda has served on City Council, representing Lancaster’s Southwest neighborhood. During her time in office, she has championed legislation to improve housing safety and protect children from lead poisoning. Amanda also advocated for a $10 million investment in affordable housing, the adoption of the Vision Zero Plan, and capital improvements to critical infrastructure. Her hard work and dedication earned her the role of City Council President in November 2022.
Find out more about Amanda here.
Jarrett Smith — Philadelphia City Commissioner
Jarrett, a community and labor advocate, is seeking the position of Philadelphia City Commissioner with the Working Families Party. Jarrett’s lifelong commitment to organizing has fueled his mission to cultivate a diverse and inclusive voter base in Philadelphia, capable of electing candidates that genuinely reflect the needs and priorities of the community. If elected, Jarrett plans to safeguard the rights of Philadelphia voters and increase access for all eligible voters in the city.
Over the past four years, Jarrett has worked as Legislative Director for SEIU Healthcare, where he advocated for the rights of members in state and local government, fought back against right-to-work attacks, and empowered members to participate in elections. As Commissioner, Jarrett is committed to ensuring that no voter falls through the cracks, particularly new voters to the process.
Find out more about Jarrett here.
Tyler Titus — County Executive, Erie County
Dr. Tyler Titus is an accomplished Licensed Professional Counselor, small business owner, activist, and parent. Their remarkable achievements and contributions to the community have garnered well-deserved recognition.
As the first openly elected transgender public official in the State of Pennsylvania, Dr. Titus’ groundbreaking win in November 2017 shattered gender norms and paved the way for a more inclusive government. During their tenure on the Erie Public School Board, they held leadership positions as vice president and president, which enabled them to advocate for more resources and support for students struggling with mental health issues.
Dr. Titus has been a driving force in the LGBTQ+ community for years and is the founder and board chair of Compton’s Table, a non-profit organization that caters to the needs of queer youth in the area. They continuously work towards creating a safe and inclusive environment where these young individuals can thrive and be the
TEXAS
Mario Castillo — Houston City Council, District H
Mario, a community organizer and public health advocate, seeks to represent District H on the City Council. As a resident of the area, Mario is committed to the well-being of the community. As the first openly LGBTQ council member to represent District H, Mario will fight for safer, stronger, healthier, and more affordable neighborhoods.
Mario has organized communities for health insurance enrollment, served as the District H Chief of Staff in 2016, and worked at the Houston Health Department. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Your Houston, is on the board of the MD Anderson YMCA and the Houston Police Department Criminal Justice Advisory Board. If elected, Mario will advocate for flood protection, crime prevention, elimination of illegal dumping, and more efficient government.
Find out more about Mario here.
VIRGINIA
Zachary Coltrain — Virginia House, District 98
Zach is a university music student, and he is the youngest candidate to file for the upcoming Virginia general assembly elections. He has been a political campaign organizer, and he works tirelessly to ensure there are progressive Democratic challengers running for the Virginia House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate.
Zach is on an endowed music scholarship for the bassoon, making it possible for him to study music therapy to help future clients. He also serves as the captain of the Appalachian State University Speech and Debate Program, where he teaches proper avenues of argumentation and advocacy to undergraduate students. He also works part-time job in a food truck, serving boba on the weekends.
Find out more about Zach here.
Lindsey Dougherty — Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, Bermuda District
Lindsey has an extensive background in nonprofit and government fiscal management, which makes her well-equipped to tackle the challenges facing the Bermuda District in Chesterfield County, Virginia. With a passion for improving the quality of life for all residents, Lindsey is determined to bring about positive change in areas such as school funding, traffic management, and infrastructure investment. Her vision for the district includes greater transparency and community involvement in local government decision-making.
Lindsey is committed to connecting with the community to understand their needs and concerns and to use her financial and professional expertise to create real solutions.
Find out more about Lindsey here.
Jade Harris — Virginia Senate, District 3
Jade is a Glasgow native and a highly qualified candidate seeking a position in Virginia’s General Assembly. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and real-world experience as a council member and vice mayor of Glasgow’s governing body, Jade is well-equipped to tackle the issues that matter most to 3rd District residents. She is passionate about ensuring that everyone has access to quality and affordable mental healthcare, infrastructure upgrades, and a high-quality public education.
Jade has also been actively involved with groups like Glasgow Concerned Citizens, March for Our Lives, and university LGBTQ leadership, and she strongly supports expanding LGBTQ protections, enshrining the standards set forth by Roe in Virginia’s Constitution, and reducing housing inequality. With her dedication to promoting dignity and equality for all, Jade is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the people she serves.
Find out more about Jade here.
Adele McClure — Virginia House, District 2
Adele, a fierce advocate for vulnerable populations, is the daughter of a resilient early childhood educator and a Filipino immigrant who served in the U.S. Army. She grew up in Northern Virginia where she experienced poverty and periodic homelessness, an experience that has shaped her into the dedicated community activist she is today. Through her activism and lived experiences, Adele has worked with advocates and members of the Virginia General Assembly to draft, pass, and implement legislation that breaks down systemic barriers, expands human rights, and improves access to services for people in Arlington and across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Adele McClure is running to represent the needs of the people in Arlington and build upon the progress that has been made. She is committed to continuing the work of expanding human rights, breaking down systemic barriers, and improving access to services for everyone in the community. With her passion, expertise, and experience, Adele is the right person to help create positive change in Arlington County.
Find out more about Adele here.
Mike Pruitt — Albemarle County Board, Scottsville District
Mike is a veteran and policy advocate running to represent the Scottsville District on the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors. Mike has dedicated his life to public service, deploying twice to hostile waters in the Persian Gulf before joining the Office of Naval Intelligence in DC. Since leaving the Navy, Mike has transitioned to a career in civil rights law, where he has provided pro bono services combatting eviction in Central Virginia and litigated racial housing discrimination with the Department of Justice.
Mike is running to build a more inclusive and affordable future for Albemarle County, where future generations will want to and be able to start families of their own. He hopes to strengthen the County’s commitment to affordable housing through renewed investment and improved zoning and planning. Having grown up in a rural blue-collar family himself, Mike hopes to better the lives of working families by strengthening career pathways in the trades and fighting for equitable economic development strategies.
Find out more about Mike here.
WASHINGTON
Emily Clouse — Thurston County Commission, District 5
Emily Clouse — Thurston County Commission, District 5
Emily is an inspirational figure, defined by her commitment to social justice and her extensive experience in public service. A proud member of the US Army, Emily has made a significant impact in several areas including the fields of law enforcement, social welfare, and affordable housing. As a co-founder of CARE Olympia, she has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of justice-involved youth and their families.
Emily’s wide range of work experience has provided her with unique insight into the many challenges that face her community, including affordable housing, public safety, and climate change. Her perspective on prisons, policing, and the justice system is informed by her time as a military intelligence analyst, and s he firmly believes that it’s time for a new approach that prioritizes restorative justice and reintegration. As a devoted abolitionist and democratic socialist, Emily is committed to the creation of equitable policies that will empower working people and help to address income inequality in Washington State’s Thurston County.
Find out more about Emily here.
Representation means power and the best way to ensure safer, healthier, and more welcoming communities for LGBTQIA+ folks is by electing them to office. Run for Something remains deeply committed to our efforts to elect young, diverse leaders who reflect our communities, and who can make meaningful progress on combating discrimination against all communities who experience it. We believe that better, more reflective leadership is an important part of LGBTQIA+ progress — if you agree, donate to these 21 LGBQTIA+ candidates to show your support!
