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A Surge in Representation

According to a recent report by the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, the number of out LGBTQ people who have won elected office has surged by nearly 200% since 2017, with a 10% increase just in the last year.

August 9, 2024

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By William Cameron

In recent years, the political landscape in the United States has witnessed a significant shift as LGBTQ representation in elected office has seen a dramatic rise. According to a recent report by the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, the number of out LGBTQ people who have won elected office has surged by nearly 200% since 2017, with a 10% increase just in the last year. This historic increase reflects a growing movement towards inclusivity and representation, even as the challenges facing the LGBTQ community continue to evolve.


Colorado has long been at the forefront of progressive change, and its embrace of LGBTQ leaders is no exception. In a state known for its diverse population and history of pioneering social reforms, the increase in LGBTQ elected officials is a testament to the changing attitudes and growing acceptance within the electorate. The Victory Institute’s report highlights that there are now 1,303 out LGBTQ elected officials across the nation, up from 448 in 2017, with Colorado playing a significant role in this upward trend.


In 2018, Colorado made history by electing Jared Polis as the nation’s first openly gay governor, a milestone that has had ripple effects throughout the state and the country. Polis’s election was not just a victory for LGBTQ representation; it was a powerful statement that voters are increasingly willing to support candidates based on their qualifications and policies rather than their sexual orientation or gender identity. Polis’s success has inspired many others in Colorado to run for office, further contributing to the state’s role as a leader in LGBTQ political representation.


The Victory Institute’s “Out for America” report underscores the significant progress made across the country. Since 2017, the number of out LGBTQ elected officials has increased by 190.8%, a figure that represents a broader cultural shift towards acceptance and visibility. For the first time, there is at least one out LGBTQ elected official in every state and Washington, D.C., a remarkable achievement that reflects the hard work and determination of LGBTQ candidates and their supporters.

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Colorado State House Representitive, David Ortiz -Image: Creative Commons

Elliot Imse, the executive director of the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, noted the historic nature of this increase, stating, “LGBTQ people are running in historic numbers right now, and we are winning.” However, Imse also pointed out that despite these gains, LGBTQ people remain underrepresented in public service. According to a March Gallup poll, 7.6% of the U.S. population identifies as LGBTQ, yet the Victory Institute’s report found that only a fraction of elected positions are held by LGBTQ individuals. The country would need to elect 38,193 more LGBTQ officials to achieve equitable representation.


While the overall increase in LGBTQ representation is encouraging, the report also highlights some concerning trends. Notably, the number of out transgender officials decreased for the first time since 2017, dropping from 50 last year to 47 this year. This decline comes at a time when transgender individuals are facing unprecedented levels of hostility and legislative attacks, particularly in states like Colorado.


Colorado has been both a battleground and a beacon for transgender rights. In recent years, the state has seen a wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation, much of it targeting transgender youth. These laws, which range from restrictions on transition-related healthcare to bans on transgender participation in school sports, have created an increasingly hostile environment for transgender individuals. This hostility may be contributing to the decline in transgender representation, as fewer trans individuals feel safe or supported enough to run for office.


Despite these challenges, the overall number of out trans, nonbinary, two-spirit, and gender-nonconforming people serving in elected office has seen an incredible 1,633% increase since 2017, from six to 104. This growth, though, is tempered by the realization that transgender representation is not growing at the same pace as other LGBTQ identities, reflecting the unique challenges faced by the trans community.

One of the most striking findings of the Victory Institute’s report is the increasing diversity within the LGBTQ elected official community. For the first time, less than half (48.2%) of LGBTQ elected officials identify as gay. The number of officials who identify as pansexual, queer, bisexual, and nonbinary has also seen significant increases, demonstrating that the movement for LGBTQ representation is becoming more inclusive and reflective of the community’s full spectrum.


In Colorado, this diversity is mirrored in the state’s own LGBTQ leaders. From openly bisexual state legislators to nonbinary city council members, Colorado’s LGBTQ officials represent a broad range of identities and experiences. This diversity not only enriches the state’s political discourse but also ensures that a wider array of voices and perspectives are included in decision-making processes.


The increasing number of LGBTQ elected officials is not just a victory for representation; it’s also having a tangible impact on policy and culture. LGBTQ officials bring unique perspectives to the table, advocating for policies that promote equality, inclusivity, and justice. Their presence in legislatures and city councils across the country, including in Colorado, is helping to shift the conversation around LGBTQ issues from one of marginalization to one of empowerment and progress.


Colorado’s LGBTQ leaders have been at the forefront of this shift. For example, in 2021, the Colorado General Assembly passed a comprehensive bill to ban the so-called “gay panic” defense, a legal strategy that seeks to justify violence against LGBTQ individuals based on the perpetrator’s reaction to the victim’s sexual orientation or gender identity. This landmark legislation, championed by LGBTQ legislators, is just one example of how LGBTQ officials are using their positions to effect meaningful change.

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US Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg -Image: Creative Commons

As the movement for LGBTQ representation continues to grow, Colorado is likely to remain a key player. The state’s progressive values, combined with its track record of electing LGBTQ leaders, make it a bellwether for the broader national trend. However, the challenges facing LGBTQ candidates, particularly transgender individuals, cannot be ignored. The decrease in trans representation underscores the need for continued support and advocacy to ensure that all members of the LGBTQ community feel empowered to seek public office.


Elliot Imse’s call for a “moonshot effort” to close the representation gap is particularly relevant in Colorado, where the state’s history of innovation and activism can serve as a model for the rest of the country. By continuing to support LGBTQ candidates and pushing back against discriminatory legislation, Colorado can help lead the way towards a more inclusive and equitable political landscape.


In conclusion, the 200% increase in LGBTQ elected officials since 2017 is a remarkable achievement that reflects both the progress made and the work still to be done. Colorado’s role in this movement is a source of pride for the state and a sign of hope for the future. As LGBTQ representation continues to grow, the impact of these leaders will be felt not just in Colorado, but across the nation, as they work to create a more just and inclusive society for all.

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About the author

With a 24-year background in print advertising sales and publishing, a love for art and design, and steadfast determination, William has helped develop and execute the successful launch of three publications over his career; METROMODE being his own. As the Creative Director, he sets the brand's vision and leads a talented team of writers while bringing his creative abilities (16-years in graphic design) to designing each issue.

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