Transgender candidates win Democratic primaries in Washington and Michigan

Transgender candidates have secured Democratic primary victories in Washington and Michigan, moving closer to becoming the first openly transgender state lawmakers in their respective states.

In Washington, Jaelynn Scott won the primary for the 37th Legislative District in south Seattle with over 88% of the vote. Scott, who leads the Lavender Rights Project, would be the state’s first openly transgender legislator and the first Black openly transgender state lawmaker elected in the country. She is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America.

In Michigan, Joanna Whaley won the Democratic primary for State House District 2, securing 56% of the vote. Whaley, a hospital chaplain, will face Republican nominee Ron Kokinda in the November general election. Her campaign previously faced a legal challenge regarding her eligibility to use her legal name on the ballot, which officials ultimately deemed unfounded.