Sharon Brackett Becomes First Trans Woman Elected to Public Office in Maryland

Last night was a historic one for LGBTQ people in politics. Sharon Brackett has become the first trans woman to be elected to public office in the state of Maryland!

Brackett triumphed in a contested primary against 14 other candidates. Ms. Brackett was elected to the 46th District Democratic Central Committee representing the neighborhoods of Canton, Locust Point, Federal Hill, Brooklyn, Curtis Bay and Cherry Hill located in Baltimore City.

In response to the historic night, Brackett said, "I want to believe that we led an upbeat campaign rooted in my philosophy of 'infectious optimism.' As a pragmatic progressive I am hoping to bring a new energy and dynamic to the Central Committee in Baltimore."

She continued, "I would like to believe that being trans is the least interesting thing about me but I recognize the significance and the importance that this moment brings especially to thousands of trans individuals like myself who may have previously thought public office was unattainable. Tonight's victory is a testament that with hard work, dedication and an 'infectious optimism' that regardless of gender identity one can serve the public in any capacity."

The newly elected official concluded, "I am looking forward to serving the Democrats of District 46 and hope to build our base and success in getting strong candidates positioned for success moving our progressive values forward."

Brackett has been an outspoken activist for the LGBTQ community for years. She is a founder and board chair of Gender Rights Maryland and was Baltimore Pride's activist of the year in 2014.

She's also served on the board of OutServe-SLDN, the leading national advocacy and legal organization for LGBTQ service members, veterans, and their families as well as The Point Foundation, the national LGBTQ scholarship organization.