Danica Roem: Trailblazing Trans Senator
In a groundbreaking victory, Virginia Del. Danica Roem secured her place in history by becoming the first transgender person elected to Virginia’s state Senate. Roem, a Democrat, triumphed over Republican opponent Bill Woolf by more than 3 percentage points in Tuesday’s election, marking her second historic win after being the first openly transgender person elected to a state legislature six years ago.
Roem’s victory was not only significant for Virginia but also for the entire southern United States. She follows in the footsteps of Delaware’s Sarah McBride, who made history as the first transgender state senator in 2020. Roem’s win serves as a powerful affirmation of the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience against bigotry.
Facing opposition that criticized her support for transgender student-athletes, Roem remained undeterred, focusing on the issues that matter most to her constituents. In a statement, she emphasized her commitment to prioritizing infrastructure, child welfare, and environmental protection over divisive issues.
Annise Parker, CEO of LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, lauded Roem’s resilience in the face of anti-trans attacks, stating that Roem’s victory rebukes attempts to silence the LGBTQ+ community. The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund reported that Roem’s win contributes to a broader “rainbow wave,” with more than 200 victories for LGBTQ+ candidates this year alone.
Roem’s success resonates beyond her personal achievements. Eight other LGBTQ+ candidates in Virginia secured legislative seats this week, marking a significant stride forward for LGBTQ+ representation in the state. The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund noted a total of over 200 victories for LGBTQ+ candidates this year, with at least 148 wins on Tuesday.
This triumph is not Roem’s first, as she previously made history in 2017 by becoming the first openly transgender person to win and serve in a U.S. state legislature. The Human Rights Campaign endorsed her campaign at the time, acknowledging her role in breaking down barriers and building bridges.
As Roem looks ahead to her role in the state Senate, she expresses gratitude to her supporters, emphasizing the collaborative effort that defines her campaigns. Her victory sends a powerful message of inclusivity, resilience, and progress, marking a historic moment for LGBTQ+ representation in Virginia and beyond.
Sources:
- Sopelsa, B. (2023, November 8). Danica Roem to become Virginia’s 1st transgender state senator. NBC News.
- Hansford, A. (2023, November 8). Danica Roem makes history as Virginia’s first transgender state senator. PinkNews.
- Image Credit: Julia Rendleman