In a monumental stride for representation and equality, Delaware State Senator Sarah McBride has been elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first openly transgender person to serve in Congress. McBride’s victory not only marks a significant milestone for the transgender community but also underscores a broader shift towards inclusivity in American politics.
The 34-year-old Democrat secured Delaware’s lone House seat by defeating Republican opponent John Whalen III with 57.7% of the vote. Her campaign, which focused on issues like affordable healthcare, paid family leave, and reproductive rights, resonated with voters across the state. “Delaware has sent the message loud and clear that we must be a country that protects reproductive freedom, guarantees paid leave and affordable child care for all our families, ensures that housing and healthcare are available to everyone, and that this is a democracy big enough for all of us,” McBride shared on social media following her win.
A Trailblazer with Deep Roots in Advocacy
Sarah McBride is no stranger to breaking barriers. In 2020, she became the first openly transgender person elected to a state senate in U.S. history. Her journey in public service began long before that milestone. As a student at American University, she studied government and American politics, eventually interning at the White House during President Barack Obama’s second term. Her advocacy work has been instrumental in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, including playing a key role in Delaware’s 2013 legislation that protected transgender individuals from discrimination.
Despite her historic status, McBride emphasizes that her identity is just one facet of her candidacy. “I’m not running to be the trans member of Congress,” she told TIME magazine. “I’m running to be the best damn legislator that I can be.” This sentiment reflects her commitment to serving all constituents and addressing the pressing issues that affect everyday Americans.
McBride’s policy priorities center around creating a more equitable society. She has been a vocal advocate for paid family and medical leave, universal child care, and affordable healthcare. “We have a 1950s care infrastructure for a 2024 workforce,” she noted. “I think we lose out as a nation from both a competitive standpoint and a compassion standpoint by lacking those policies.”
Her legislative track record in the Delaware State Senate backs up her commitments. McBride successfully sponsored legislation to create a statewide paid family and medical leave insurance program, addressed Medicaid reimbursement rates for home healthcare services, and expanded access to dental care for low-income residents. Her practical approach to policymaking aims to improve the lives of all Delawareans, regardless of their background.
McBride’s victory is part of a larger narrative of groundbreaking wins in the 2024 election. U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester, also from Delaware, made history by becoming the state’s first female senator and the first Black woman to represent Delaware in the Senate. In Maryland, Democrat Angela Alsobrooks won her Senate race, marking the first time that two Black women will serve in the U.S. Senate simultaneously. These achievements signal a significant step forward in diversifying representation at the highest levels of government.
Navigating a Challenging Political Landscape
McBride’s election comes at a time of heightened political tension, particularly around transgender rights. Former President Donald Trump has intensified his attacks on transgender issues, pledging to outlaw gender-affirming care for minors. Figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have openly criticized McBride’s campaign, calling it “complete evil” and engaging in anti-transgender rhetoric.
Despite these challenges, McBride remains undeterred. “Their immaturity is not worthy of being dignified with a response,” she said regarding potential mistreatment by fellow legislators. “My focus is going to be doing the work. Are there going to be some members of Congress who are going to be weird and immature about me being there? Sure, but those are members of Congress that won’t work with any Democrat, and they can barely work with their own Republican colleagues.”
A Commitment to Unity and Progress
Understanding the personal risks that come with being a visible LGBTQ+ public figure, McBride acknowledges the weight of her role. “If I refrain from giving back to my state and this country because of risk,” she stated, “then those who would seek to use the risk of violence to silence people, to push people into the shadows, will have won.”
McBride aims to bridge divides and lower the temperature of political discourse. “If there’s one thing beyond the tangible policies I can contribute in the House—and I know people might not expect this—it’s that I want to help bring down the temperature,” she expressed. “I want to model for this country what it means to be an active citizen, and that is to have conversations across disagreement and difference.”
She plans to join both the New Democrat Coalition and the Congressional Progressive Caucus, reflecting her dedication to fostering dialogue across the political spectrum. “Our democracy only works if we are willing to engage with one another and maintain our bonds with one another,” McBride said. “I hope to be part of healing and bridging the divides in our politics.”
A Message of Hope for the Transgender Community
For transgender individuals, their families, and allies, McBride’s election is a beacon of hope and validation. It signifies a growing acceptance and recognition of transgender people in public life. Her presence in Congress serves as a powerful reminder that one’s identity does not limit their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
“Tonight is a testament to Delawareans that we have shown time and time again that in this state of neighbors, we judge candidates based on their ideas and not their identities,” McBride affirmed. “I didn’t run to make history. I ran to make a difference for my state and this country.”
Her words resonate deeply within the transgender community, which has often faced marginalization and misunderstanding. McBride’s success challenges stereotypes and opens doors for future generations of transgender individuals aspiring to public service.
As Sarah McBride prepares to take her seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, she carries with her the hopes and aspirations of many who have felt unseen or unheard. Her dedication to policy over politics, coupled with her lived experience, positions her uniquely to advocate for meaningful change.
While the road ahead may present obstacles, particularly given the current political climate, McBride remains focused on her mission. “The only people that really care about discriminating against trans people are the extreme elements of Donald Trump’s base, a handful of immature politicians, and the dredges of the internet,” she stated confidently. “I think what we have seen throughout the last several years is that this country does not hate trans people.”
Her election serves as evidence of that belief. It underscores a collective willingness to move beyond prejudice and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society. For the transgender community and its allies, McBride’s victory is more than a political win; it’s a reaffirmation of dignity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of equality.
The Bottom Line
Sarah McBride’s historic election to Congress is a landmark moment in American history. It symbolizes progress not just for the transgender community but for all who value diversity and representation in government. As she steps into her new role, McBride embodies the possibility of a future where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can serve and lead.
Her journey reminds us that while challenges persist, they are not insurmountable. With determination, empathy, and a commitment to justice, positive change is achievable. McBride’s presence in Congress will undoubtedly inspire many to believe in their own potential to make a difference.
As we reflect on this significant achievement, we recognize that representation matters. Seeing oneself reflected in positions of power can transform perceptions and aspirations. Sarah McBride’s election is a testament to the strides we’ve made and a hopeful indicator of the progress yet to come.
