LGBTQ+ Stories You Should Know About

History in the Making: Cayden Davis Secures Spot on November Ballot

Victory Fund candidate Cayden Davis made history this week in Worcester! Cayden secured a primary victory in his race for Worcester City Council At-Large and is now on to the November general election. If elected, he would become the first out trans man ever elected in Massachusetts history!

Earlier this year, the city of Worcester voted to become a sanctuary for transgender people. And with Cayden’s historic election, the city will take one step closer to becoming a more inclusive place – with authentic representation in office!

Congratulations, Cayden!

From School Boards to City Halls, LGBTQ+ Voices Are Rising

On September 6, voters in Framingham, Massachusetts will head to the polls where Brent Lewis is running for School Committee!

Just a few days later on September 9, nine Victory Fund candidates will appear on ballots across the country: Michael Fenton (Springfield City Council, MA), LaWana Slack Mayfield (Charlotte City Council, NC), Carey McDonald (Malden City Council, MA), Rebecca Maurer (Cleveland City Council, OH), Liz Breadon (Boston City Council, MA), Juan Diego “JD” Mazuera Arias (Charlotte City Council, NC), Garry Miller (Newton City Council, MA), Jim Petras (Mayor of Cleveland Heights, OH), and Jeffrey Litke (Naugatuck Board of Education, CT). These races are critical opportunities to expand LGBTQ+ voices at the local level—leaders who will protect LGBTQ+ rights in their hometowns and help build the pipeline of power that strengthens our movement nationwide.

Local leadership is where policy begins, and electing pro-equality voices like these ensures that LGBTQ+ youth and families see themselves represented and supported in their communities.

Victory Fund Endorses New Slate of LGBTQ+ Leaders for 2025–2026 Races

We’ve has endorsed a new slate of state and local candidates for the 2025 and 2026 campaign cycles! These 21 candidates, running for offices from city councils to state legislatures, all demonstrate a clear path to victory and a commitment to LGBTQ+ equality and bodily autonomy. Read more here!

Additionally, Victory Fund endorsed five incumbent LGBTQ+ Harris County, Texas judges - the “Fab 5” - up for reelection in 2026. All five have proven records of leadership and service, and the endorsement highlights their strong path to victory. Learn more about their campaigns here!

Ohio Rep. Christine Cockley Comes Out, Doubles LGBTQ+ Representation in State House

Victory Fund is thrilled to celebrate Ohio State Rep. Christine Cockley, who publicly came out as queer this month!

Her announcement doubles LGBTQ+ representation in the Ohio House at a time when visibility and authentic leadership are more important than ever. Rep. Cockley’s courage and presence in public office strengthen our movement and ensure that the diversity of LGBTQ+ voices are represented in state government. We’re proud to welcome her into our growing network of out leaders serving with pride across the country!