LGBTQ+ elected officials are facing mental health challenges. A new initiative wants to support them
“Being an out LGBTQ+ elected official in this climate takes a big toll on one’s mental health," says Victory Institute's Evan Low.
May 29, 2025
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“Being an out LGBTQ+ elected official in this climate takes a big toll on one’s mental health," says Victory Institute's Evan Low.
In today's hostile environment, we have to make sure our voices are impossible to ignore, Low says.
There could be many firsts in this year's election.
An amendment would remove language from the state constitution that states “only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.”
It would repeal the anti-marriage equality language of the infamous Proposition 8.
The prominent Democrats called for solidarity, courage, and unapologetic representation in rousing speeches.
Low will succeed Annise Parker, who announced several months ago that she planned to step down.
Low, currently a member of the California Assembly, is running for a U.S. House seat from Silicon Valley.
LGBTQ+ candidates are running to make history in California, Texas, North Carolina, and elsewhere.
Despite being overturned, the proposition’s hateful language remains in the California Constitution.
The two were recognized as allies to the LGBTQ+ community.
One commission member described Evan Low's deliberate attempts to hide his payment to Baldwin for the actor's appearance at political fundraiser as "egregious."
There were some bright spots.
The final vote count shows Low in a tie for second with Joe Simitian, so both will be on the general election ballot, along with Sam Liccardo. The primary was held March 5.
California out Assemblymember Evan Low said he was inspired to introduce this bill by an 8-year-old girl who asked, “Why should a store tell me what a girl’s shirt or toy is?”
LGBTQ+ Americans are still far from equitable representation in public office, says a new report from the Victory Institute.