Washington, DC — Chicago mayoral candidate Lori Lightfoot bested at least 12 opponents Tuesday night in a historic race that could make her the highest-ranking openly LGBTQ mayor in United States history. With 85 percent of the vote in, Lightfoot is in the lead, securing a spot in the runoff election on April 2. Lightfoot surged in the polls over the last few months as the reform candidate with a clean record, while many of her opponents were increasingly tied to corruption scandals.
With her advancing to the runoff, LGBTQ Victory Fund's endorsement board unanimously agreed to upgrade her to a Spotlight Endorsement — the organizations' highest endorsement level. Spotlight candidates receive additional campaign and fundraising support from Victory Fund.
Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker — now President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund and currently the highest-ranking openly LGBTQ mayor in U.S. history — released the following statement about Lightfoot's victory:
"Despite not having a legacy last name or a rolodex of rich friends, Lori's fighting spirit and ability to transcend the murky machinations of Chicago politics has made the unlikely a reality — and Chicagoans will be better for it," said Mayor Parker. "While Lori is determined to improve the lives of all the city's residents — whether downtown or on the South Side — the historic nature of her candidacy provides Chicagoans the rare opportunity to bring fresh perspectives and experiences to city hall. With a victory in April, Lori will become the first Black woman to serve as Chicago's mayor and will supplant me as the highest-ranking openly LGBTQ mayor in U.S. history. I am ready and excited for Lori to take on that title."
Additionally, two Victory Fund-endorsed openly LGBTQ Chicago city council candidates have won their races so far. Maria Hadden defeated a 28-year incumbent to become the first Black queer person elected to the council. Alderman Tom Tunney won reelection and will continue to be a strong voice for LGBTQ Chicagoans.
—From a LGBTQ Victory Fund press release
LGBTQ Victory Fund works to change the face and voice of America's politics and achieve equality for LGBTQ Americans by increasing the number of openly LGBTQ elected officials at all levels of government.
victoryfund.org .
