For the first time ever, LGBTQ2S+ candidates are vying for seats in next week’s elections in all 50 states across the U.S. plus Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. There is hope among advocates that this will lead to other historic firsts, such as the first openly lesbian governor in the country. These increasing numbers follow the “rainbow wave” that started in 2018, but in spite of these record numbers, LGBTQ2S+ people still remain underrepresented across all levels of government. In November, voters will have a chance to elect more LGBTQ2S+ people to office than ever before.

This article is published in Xtra Magazine.