Representation matters. That’s true for all those who have historically suffered bias and discrimination. And it’s no less important for the LGBTQ+ community. Many LGBTQ+ Americans continue to suffer, particularly in the name of “religious freedom,” a phrase many Republicans use to pit religion against us. But as former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg proved, we are everywhere, even in religious communities.

 Allies are important, but no one understands what it is like to grow up and live LGBTQ+ as well as LGBTQ+ people. That is why it is so important to have as many candidates and elected officials from our community as possible.

The following profiles are not meant as endorsements. We are offering them as tools to help you, the voter, make informed decisions. In many ways, LGBTQ+ people are invisible minorities, so we hope putting a spotlight on these candidates helps you not only to know them, but also to understand why representation of our community in the halls of power matters.

 For a list of LGBTQ+ candidates by state, visit the Victory Fund: https://victoryfund.org/

The Victory Fund is not associated with Democrats Abroad