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Politics

In Politics, The Advocate presents the latest news about the political world. From Supreme Court rulings to state and federal laws, The Advocate reports on how politics shapes the day-to-day realities faced by members of the gay community. Read about LGBT leaders like Barney Frank and Tammy Baldwin and their work to advance the causes of the LGBT rights movement in the United States and around the world. Find out about legislation related to same-sex marriage, adoption, and other issues in gay politics that will impact the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Americans.

LGBTQ+ women face more challenges than men in running for office: report

Women from the LGBTQ+ community are often discouraged from running, find their qualifications questioned, and experience gender-based violence, according to Victory Institute.

New Hampshire advances trans-exclusionary sports bill

If the bill becomes law, New Hampshire would be the first northeastern state with such a statute.

Election season got you down? This crisis line is soothing LGBTQ+ mental health (exclusive)

As lawmakers target the community, the need for mental health services skyrockets. FOLX Health CEO Liana Douillet Guzmán tells The Advocate about a new service that's helping.

White House calls Republican spending bill’s ban on the Pride flag ‘inappropriate’

After backlash over a spending bill provision banning Pride flags at U.S. embassies, the Biden-Harris administration is emphasizing its dedication to LGBTQ+ advocacy and outlining efforts to mitigate the impact of the law.

First Lady goes to bat for LGBTQ+ rights: 'They want to take our victories away, but we won’t let them'

Amidst a backdrop of protest and advocacy, Dr. Jill Biden highlights the ongoing battle for LGBTQ+ rights and remembers LGBTQ+ teen Nex Benedict.

George Santos leaves Republican Party, will run for House seat as independent

It's the latest twist in the convoluted Santos saga.

Biden sacrifices LGBTQ+ Pride flags at U.S. embassies to pass 'critical' spending bill (exclusive)

The Biden administration has agreed to ban LGBTQ+ Pride flags from flying at U.S. embassies in order to fund numerous health initiatives, including the AIDS relief plan.

Tennessee bill would permit anti-LGBTQ+ foster and adoptee parents

Critics say the bill opens to the door to unsafe homes for LGBTQ+ children.

Out Congress members outraged as anti-LGBTQ+ bills advance

U.S. House committees approved an anti-trans sports bill and one allowing faith-based discrimination by college groups.

'Cruel' Nebraska senator investigated after using colleague's name in a rape scene

Republican Steve Halloran is under investigation for sexual harassment after using a colleague's name while reading a graphic rape scene on the legislative floor.

Trans chaplain speaks to Tennessee legislature as Republicans try to erase people like her

Dahron Johnson told The Advocate why the speaking engagement was significant and what she hoped it did for transgender people’s representation amid Republican attacks on trans lives.

Former Olympian Caitlyn Jenner supports New York policy banning trans women from sports

LGBTQ+ advocates are stunned by the transgender woman’s ongoing stance against the inclusion of trans people in many facets of public life.

Alabama judge unseals report accusing top LGBTQ+ rights attorneys of improper judge shopping

The report is related to lawsuits brought against Alabama’s 2022 ban on gender-affirming health care for trans youth.

Joe Biden has tied the record for most LGBTQ+ judges confirmed in federal courts

Eleven federal judges who identify as LGBTQ+ have been confirmed to lifetime positions under the Biden administration, tyingthe record set by the Obama administration.

Trump ally Bernie Moreno wins Republican primary for U.S. Senate from Ohio

He will face LGBTQ-supportive Democrat Sherrod Brown in November. Meanwhile, trans woman Arienne Childrey won her primary for Ohio House.

Navy vet opposes Moms for Liberty-backed homeschool advocate for Florida school board seat

Travis Akers, a veteran and social justice advocate, confronts Melody Bolduc’s far-right ties in a battle over educational policies and inclusivity in Duval County schools.

Unfilled prescriptions, missed checkups, loneliness: States' anti-LGBTQ+ moves affect health

Most of the extreme bills have failed to pass, but trans adults are watching statehouses with heightened anxiety.

Kentucky lawmakers seek to criminalize 'disruptive conduct' after LGBTQ+ protest

After 19 protesters were arrested when the legislature passed a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ bill, lawmakers are considering new punishments — which civil rights activists say could limit free speech.

Southern states push forward with bills ending legal recognition for trans people

Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama all are advancing bills that "define sex" to exclude transgender people from any legal recognition of their gender.

California parents oust school board members who enacted anti-LGBTQ+ policy

Two members of the Orange Unified School District board have been removed by parents who opposed a policy requiring school staff to out transgender kids.