Washington, DC – Today Pete Buttigieg will become the first openly LGBTQ person to run in the Iowa Democratic caucuses – a historic moment for the LGBTQ community and all Americans. It is one of the many historic firsts of Buttigieg’s candidacy, including being the first openly LGBTQ Democratic presidential candidate in American history and the first to be a top contender in national polls. LGBTQ Victory Fund endorsed Buttigieg on the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in June of 2019. It was Buttigieg’s first national endorsement.

Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, released the following statement about his achievement:

“As Iowa voters head to their corners and declare their presidential allegiances, it is important to step back and appreciate that this caucus day is a significant moment in American history,” said Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund. “Today, Pete becomes the first openly LGBTQ person to run in the Iowa Democratic caucuses – a historic event that all Americans should take pride in and celebrate regardless of the results tonight.”

“One year ago, few would believe an LGBTQ presidential candidate would soar in the polls, kiss his husband before an announcement speech or speak about coming out from the national debate stage. Pete’s candidacy marks a revolution in American politics, forever transforming what is possible for an LGBTQ candidate to achieve. Pete has shattered expectations throughout this primary season and we are confident Iowans will help him do it again tonight.”

Fred Karger, who ran in 2012, was the first openly LGBTQ person to run in the Iowa Republican caucuses.

Photos of Buttigieg from LGBTQ Victory Fund’s National Champagne Brunch on April 7 and endorsement event on June 28 are available for public use with attribution to “LGBTQ Victory Fund.”

More information is available at victoryforpete.com.

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LGBTQ Victory Fund

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