Democratic primary voters in Vermont selected out transgender woman Christine Hallquist as their nominee for governor, making her the first out trans person to be the gubernatorial nominee of a major American political party. She joins three other openly LGBTQ candidates who received the Democratic nomination for governor this cycle – Kate Brown of Oregon, Jared Polis of Colorado, and Lupe Valdez of Texas – a historic number.

Christine bested four primary opponents with a strong campaign organization and robust ground game while running on her extensive experience as CEO of a Vermont electric utility company. Christine, who already made history as the first CEO of a major corporation to transition on the job, will become the first openly trans person to serve as governor of a U.S. state and the second openly LGBTQ person ever elected governor, if she wins in November.

Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, released the following statement about her primary win:

“Christine’s victory is a defining moment in the movement for trans equality and is especially remarkable given how few out trans elected officials there are at any level of government. Many thought it unthinkable a viable trans gubernatorial candidate like Christine would emerge so soon. Yet Vermont voters chose Christine not because of her gender identity, but because she is an open and authentic candidate with a long history of service to the state, and who speaks to the issues most important to voters.

“Christine’s business experience and progressive vision for Vermont means she’s perfectly-positioned to take on Governor Scott – whose approval numbers continue to plunge because of his inability to manage the state government and his failed attempts to hide his conservative policy positions. When voters head to the polls this November, we are confident Vermonters will make her the first openly trans governor in the nation and just the second openly LGBTQ person elected governor in American history.

“Christine often attributes Vermonters’ accepting her gender identity to the hard work and bravery of LGBTQ pioneers who came before her – those at Stonewall, the Harvey Milks, and other courageous activists. Now, Christine is a pioneer deserving of that appreciation. Her authenticity, poise and presence on the campaign trail will undoubtedly inspire more trans people to pursue their dreams of a career in elected office, and that will inevitably change America and the world.”