John:

We’re right on the cusp of another Democratic debate, and once again, Pete is preparing to take the stage. As the new frontrunner in both Iowa and New Hampshire, there’s no doubt that Pete will need to fend off attacks from other candidates and provide a full-throated defense of his plans.

As he well should. This is what politics should be made of: great debates between skilled individuals, comprehensive plans with actionable items and real-world solutions for the problems facing countless Americans. During each debate, I’m proud to see Pete standing on the stage, making history as the first openly LGBTQ Democratic presidential candidate, and focusing on issues affecting all Americans.

We say it often here at Victory Fund: our goal is to make historic firsts history. To elect LGBTQ people to all levels of government, ensuring we have representation. Chip in today to help us make history.

But Pete’s candidacy also reminds me of the darker side of American politics, and that anti-LGBTQ activists will attempt to exploit an LGBTQ candidate for who they are. It’s a humbling reminder that no matter what other identities you carry; as an LGBTQ candidate, your identity will be weaponized against you.

In a recent article from The Federalist, an opinion contributor dubiously attacked not only Pete’s deep ties to his religion, but his sexual orientation. The writer – and to call them that is an insult to the term – decried Pete’s religious beliefs and used his sexuality as a cudgel to minimize his historic run. Moving beyond logic, they defended Mike Pence’s attacks against the LGBTQ community and justified using religious exclusion laws to harm the LGBTQ community.

But despite these tired words written in the political equivalent of a right-wing gossip rag, I know there’s another side to the conversation. A side where young kids come out during graduation speeches because of Pete’s campaign, inspired to see someone like them running for the highest office. A side where LGBTQ people in states with no LGBTQ protections choose to run for office regardless of homophobic attacks, because they know they can create a more equal world.  

And as our candidates fight to win, we fight with them. We defend them against attacks and provide them with the resources they need to win. And those resources come from dedicated supporters like you. Chip in today.

This is our side: 85 of our endorsed candidates won on Election Night in 2019. LGBTQ candidates like Ali Brown win, becoming the first openly LGBTQ woman elected to the Indianapolis City Council. Like Tammy Baldwin, the first openly LGBTQ U.S. Senator. Like Angie Craig, who became the first openly LGBTQ member of Congress from Minnesota in 2018. Like Danica Roem, who just defeated another anti-trans opponent to become the first trans state legislator ever reelected. Our LGBTQ candidates run authentic campaigns that resonate with voters – and scare the hell out of bigots.

Help them run – and win. 2020 is going to be one of the most brutal election cycles in our 28-year history, and everything is on the line. Donate today.

Despite the attacks, despite the rhetoric, despite the twisting of truth and narrative, our candidates – from Pete on down – prove time and again that they can stand against hateful rhetoric and win. Pete’s up in polling in New Hampshire, up in Iowa. His message is resonating. The Federalist is terrified of what we can do and they’re throwing out every trope to stop us and our candidates.

I say: keep throwing curveballs. We’ll keep hitting them out of the park.

Donate today.

Mayor Annise Parker

President & CEO, LGBTQ Victory Fund