Malcolm Kenyatta, Pennsylvania’s first out gay Black lawmaker, wins fifth term

Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta won reelection to represent Pennsylvania’s 181st District in the House of Representatives, securing a fifth term.

The out gay politician made history in 2018 when he became the first out gay Black person elected to the state legislature and the second out member overall. He has been married to his husband, Matthew Jordan-Miller Kenyatta, since 2022.

According to Decision Desk HQ, the Democratic state representative won the race at 8 p.m. Eastern time. Kenyatta ran unopposed in the general election.

A third-generation North Philadelphia native, Kenyatta represents a district that includes parts of North Philadelphia and Temple University’s main campus. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Temple and a master’s degree at Drexel University. His legislative work has included advocating for workers’ rights and addressing government waste and corruption.

In a 2024 interview with The Advocate, Kenyatta said his personal experiences as a gay Black politician had strengthened his commitment to public service and the LGBTQ+ community in Pennsylvania.

“I am not going to be intimidated from fighting for my neighbors, my community,” he said. He described facing death threats and security concerns while serving in public office.

As for what’s next? Kenyatta is pushing to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 an hour. He’s also hoping to lower housing costs, increase investments in public schools, and support better healthcare access and resources for the queer community.