Image Credit-Sarah McBride
In a groundbreaking victory for both Delaware and the nation, Sarah McBride has been elected as the first transgender member of the U.S. Congress. Securing the opportunity to represent Delaware, McBride defeated James Whalen III, a former police officer whose campaign focused on curbing federal spending and illegal immigration. McBride’s win sends a powerful message about inclusion, equality, and the importance of diverse representation in American politics.
“Delaware has sent the message loud and clear that we must be a country that protects reproductive freedom, guarantees paid leave, affordable childcare, accessible housing, and healthcare for all,” McBride shared on social media. “This is a democracy big enough for everyone.”
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Courage and Authenticity: Her Journey to Public Service
McBride’s journey to Congress began with a moment of courage in her university years. While running for student body president at American University, she publicly shared her gender identity, a decision she describes as terrifying but necessary. “At the time, I was scared. I worried that my dreams and my identity were mutually exclusive,” McBride shared at the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Upon completing her term in 2012, she wrote an editorial for the university’s publication, disclosing, “For my entire life, I have wrestled with my gender identity. It was only after this year that I was able to come to terms with what had been my deepest secret: I’m transgender.”
This marked the beginning of a determined path in politics. In 2020, McBride made history by becoming the first openly transgender state senator, sparking hope for the LGBTQ+ community nationwide. “It really felt like America was blazing a path to the future,” she recently reflected on social media, expressing concern over far-right attempts to scapegoat LGBTQ+ people.
Advocacy and Legislative Achievements
McBride’s dedication to advocacy draws from a rich history of public service. Having interned at the White House during the Obama Administration and worked alongside former Delaware Governor Jack Markell and Beau Biden, Delaware’s former Attorney General, McBride has continually championed social justice. As a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign, the country’s largest LGBTQ+ rights organization, she amplified voices of LGBTQ+ people across the nation.
Her achievements in Delaware include spearheading landmark legislation to improve healthcare, introduce mental health education, promote green technologies, and protect workers’ rights. Her flagship achievement, the Healthy Delaware Families Act, established paid family and medical leave, marking a significant milestone for the state. McBride’s contributions were recognized when she became the youngest recipient of the Order of the First State, Delaware’s highest civilian honor.
Resilience and Personal Inspiration
In 2014, McBride married her late husband, Andrew Cray, a devoted advocate for healthcare equality who tragically passed away from cancer just days after their wedding. “Knowing Andy left me profoundly changed,” she shared, “his passing taught me that every day matters when it comes to building a world where everyone can live their life to the fullest.” McBride continues to honor his legacy through her work and her deeply personal memoir, Tomorrow Will Be Different, published in 2018.
An Inclusive Vision for America’s Future
Beyond her political career, McBride has shared her insights as a public policy instructor at the University of Delaware, helping to shape the next generation of leaders. As she prepares to take office, her journey stands as an inspiring testament to resilience, compassion, and the importance of embracing one’s identity in pursuit of a better world for all.