James Roesener Is First Trans Man Elected to State Legislature in U.S.

New Hampshire on Tuesday became the first state to elect an out transgender man to its state legislature in U.S. history.

James Roesener, a bisexual Democrat, won the seat for the state's 22^nd House District, Ward 8, according to the Victory Fund, an LGBTQ+ rights group that supports queer candidates. Local media have also called the race in Roesner's favor.

"Trans people - and trans men in particular - remain severely underrepresented in government at every level, but we are confident his win will inspire many more trans people to run for office," said Victory Fund's president and CEO Annise Parker. "From safeguarding reproductive rights to increasing investment in New Hampshire's education and health care systems, James is well prepared to enact legislation that will deliver lasting results for his community. At a time of intensifying transphobia at all levels of government and society, he showed incredible courage throughout his historic campaign."

The organization noted that there are only eight out trans state lawmakers in the country. None of them are trans men. It also reports that there are just six out trans men that serve in elected office.