Trans candidates are running on a slew of issues besides anti-LGBTQ bills

Ashley Brundage, a transgender woman running for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives, hopes to make history as the first trans woman elected to public office in Florida. She credits Gov. Ron DeSantis for inspiring her campaign, despite his anti-LGBTQ policies. Brundage, along with other transgender candidates nationwide, is motivated by the wave of anti-LGBTQ bills proposed and passed by state lawmakers. While trans issues may not be a top priority for voters, trans candidates are increasingly running for office to advocate for a variety of policy issues beyond LGBTQ rights. The presence of trans candidates on the ballot continues to rise, following the trailblazing success of politicians like Danica Roem and Sarah McBride. In 2019, Pejril made history by becoming the first openly trans elected official in Indiana. Thomas, a librarian and political candidate in Missouri, is concerned about right-wing attempts to censor books about LGBTQ people in school libraries. Despite facing transphobia on the campaign trail, candidates like Iwamoto and Thomas remain determined to pursue their political ambitions. Pejril, a candidate for the Indiana Senate, prioritizes healthcare freedoms in her campaign. Despite facing verbal attacks and discrimination, Pejril remains committed to living authentically and fighting for justice for all.