LGTBQ+

Equality Is Not Optional — It’s the Bare Minimum

Every American deserves to live freely, safely, and with dignity—regardless of who they are or who they love. That’s not just a progressive idea. That’s a basic American value.

I am proud to stand fully and unapologetically with the LGBTQ+ community—including our transgender neighbors, friends, coworkers, and youth—because their rights are human rights, and this country is stronger when we ensure freedom, equality, and safety for everyone.

LGBTQ+ People Are a Vital Part of Our Economy and Communities

Far from being a “fringe issue,” LGBTQ+ inclusion is central to our country’s future. According to a 2023 report from the Human Rights Campaign and Out Leadership:

  • The LGBTQ+ community contributes over $1.7 trillion annually to the U.S. economy.

  • LGBTQ-owned businesses create tens of thousands of jobs, spur innovation, and serve as a backbone of many local economies.

  • Cities and states that support LGBTQ+ rights see higher rates of investment, tourism, and talent retention—because equality and prosperity go hand-in-hand.

Protecting LGBTQ+ people isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good economics and smart policy.

Let’s Be Clear: Attacks on Trans People Are Attacks on Kids

Right now, right-wing politicians are trying to score cheap political points by targeting transgender youth. They’re banning books, blocking access to medical care, and criminalizing parents, teachers, and doctors for supporting these kids. Why?

Because they’re bullies.

When you strip away the slogans and scare tactics, what they’re really doing is picking on children—kids who just want to live their truth and grow up in peace.

Let’s be absolutely clear:

  • Trans youth are not a threat.

  • Drag shows are not more dangerous than gun violence.

  • Teachers and parents supporting LGBTQ+ kids are not criminals.

What is dangerous? Politicians stoking fear and hatred to distract from their failure to deliver jobs, healthcare, housing, or real solutions.

What I’ll Fight For: Full Equality Under the Law

It’s time to move beyond tolerance and toward full equity. That means:

  • Passing the Equality Act to enshrine nondiscrimination protections nationwide

  • Banning so-called “conversion therapy” once and for all

  • Protecting access to gender-affirming healthcare for youth and adults

  • Increasing funding for mental health support and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ individuals

  • Stopping censorship in schools and defending LGBTQ+ students and educators

  • Expanding housing, employment, and healthcare protections for LGBTQ+ people, especially trans and nonbinary folks

The Fight Is Personal—Because Freedom Means Everyone

You don’t get to call this the “land of the free” if millions of Americans are being targeted, erased, or forced back into the closet.

I will never stand by while extremists try to turn LGBTQ+ people into scapegoats.
I will always fight for a future where every person—no matter their gender identity or who they love—has the same rights, the same protections, and the same opportunity to thrive.

Because you shouldn’t have to fight to exist. Not in America.