Christine Hallquist Makes History as First Transgender Gubernatorial Nominee
Christine Hallquist Makes History as First Transgender Gubernatorial Nominee for Major Party
In a groundbreaking moment for the LGBTQ community, Christine Hallquist has become the first transgender gubernatorial candidate nominated by a major political party. Running as a progressive Democrat in Vermont, Hallquist secured victory in a crowded primary, capturing 39 percent of the vote according to unofficial results.
Hallquist’s platform focuses on economic and social justice, advocating for a $15 minimum wage, environmentally sustainable rural development, and expanded access to internet services. Addressing supporters at a victory party, she expressed pride in representing the Democratic Party and emphasized her commitment to education reform, a living wage, and Medicare for All.
The historic nature of Hallquist’s nomination was not lost on supporters and advocates for LGBTQ equality. Houston Mayor Annise Parker, president of the LGBTQ Victory Fund, hailed Hallquist’s victory as a defining moment for trans equality, noting the scarcity of openly trans elected officials in government.
Hallquist joins a record number of openly LGBTQ candidates for governor this year, including Lupe Valdez of Texas, Kate Brown of Oregon, and Jared Polis of Colorado. If successful in the general election against incumbent Gov. Phil Scott, Hallquist would become the nation’s first transgender governor.
Despite the historic nature of her candidacy, Hallquist has emphasized that she is more than just an LGBTQ candidate. As a former CEO of Vermont Electric Cooperative, she highlights her background as an engineer, innovator, and progressive leader.
With the support of progressive groups like Justice Democrats, Hallquist’s victory adds to the momentum of the “Year of the Woman” in the 2018 midterm elections. As governor’s races across the country unfold, the question remains whether Hallquist and other progressive women will ride a “blue wave” to victory in November.
