Oregon’s Kate Brown makes history by winning election as first out Governor of US state
Bi politician Kate Brown has won election as Governor of Oregon, making history as the first out LGB person to win election as governor of a US state.
The Democrat was first sworn in as Governor in Oregon in 2015 with just five days’ notice, drafted in after the resignation of Governor John Kitzhaber.
After winning praise for her level-headed approach, Governor Brown vowed to stand for election to carry on in the role.
The new Governor was this week elected in her own right, as she saw off an challenge from Republican rival Bud Pierce.
It marks a new first – the first time a US state has democratically elected an out politician as Governor.
Ms Brown, who is married to husband Dan Little, was outed by a newspaper in the 1990s – but has spoken previously about being out as a bi woman.
Speaking to the Washington Blade, Brown said she hoped her election proves “you can’t be what you can’t see”.
She said: “If I can be a role model for one young person that decides that their life is worth living because there’s someone like them in the world, it’s worth it.”
Aisha C Moodie-Mills of the LGBT Victory Fund said: “Kate Brown’s win in Oregon is one for the history books – becoming the first openly LGBT person ever elected governor in the US.
“Her lopsided win is testament to her strength as a candidate, her winning message and her connection with Oregon voters.
“Governor Brown has been an outstanding leader on common sense gun reform, reproductive freedom, domestic violence prevention, and investments in education.
“While the LGBT community will forever recognise Governor Brown as a historic first, most Oregonians will remember her strong leadership and support for issues that matter most to their lives. They made an outstanding choice in electing Governor Brown.”
