Sarah McBride makes history as first openly transgender person elected to Congress

McBride, a Democrat, defeated Republican John Whalen III

Delaware state Senator Sarah McBride has made history as the first openly transgender person elected to Congress, winning the state's sole House seat with 57.8 percent of the vote. McBride, a Democrat, defeated Republican John Whalen III, highlighting her campaign’s focus on affordable health care, reproductive rights, and raising the minimum wage. Known for her bipartisan efforts in Delaware’s Senate, McBride aimed to bring a cooperative approach to Congress.

“Tonight is a testament to Delawareans that here in our state of neighbors, we judge candidates based on their ideas and not their identities,” said McBride at Delaware’s Democratic election celebration on Tuesday.

Her historic win has resonated widely. Jake Carpenter, a Delaware resident who met McBride during her campaign, said her policies and personal story inspired him to support her, even persuading several Republicans to vote for her. Carpenter, an LGBTQ club advisor, emphasized the significance of McBride’s victory for his trans students, seeing her as a role model and hero.

Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, called McBride’s election a “landmark achievement” for LGBTQ rights. Her victory also comes amidst increased anti-transgender rhetoric from GOP figures, including former President Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance, with Republicans reportedly spending over $200 million on ads targeting trans issues in this election cycle. McBride’s success stands as a symbol of progress for LGBTQ representation, countering divisive political narratives with a message of inclusivity and equality.