Danica Roem Wins Re-Election to Virginia House of Delegates
Danica Roem made history in 2017 when she was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, becoming the first openly transgender person to serve in a state-wise position in the U.S. Last night, November 5, she made history again as she became the first transgender person to be re-elected, staving off a challenge from anti-LGBTQ candidate Kelly McGinn to win 56% of the vote.
Roem, in case you missed it, is an avowed metalhead, having played in the metal band Cab Ride Home and often using her Twitter account to talk metal with fans and constituents. MetalSucks heartily recommends giving Danica a follow.
Roem will continue to serve in the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 13th District, which is about 30 miles from Washington D.C. and includes Manassas, Manassas Park, Gainesville, and Haymarket. McGinn, her opponent, ran on a hateful campaign that labeled marriage equality “morally repugnant” and received donations from anti-LGBTQ conservative groups and their members.
Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David said in a statement:
“Danica Roem has once again made history, becoming the longest-serving and first openly transgender elected official to be re-elected in our nation’s history. Throughout her tenure in the House of Delegates, Roem has remained focused on the needs of her constituents, despite hateful and divisive attacks from anti-LGBTQ groups and her opponents.”
Erin Uritus, CEO of Out & Equal, said in another statement:
“Two years ago, Danica Roem broke an important barrier when she became the first openly transgender person elected to the Virginia statehouse. Today, she made history again as the first to be re-elected! This historic victory is a meaningful affirmation that transgender Americans belong in every aspect of public life — at work, in our armed forces, and in elected office.”
On behalf of everyone at MetalSucks, congrats to Danica for another impressive accomplishment in the face of hate, and continuing to work hard for the people she represents.
[via The Daily Beast]
