Washington, DC – Tonight LGBTQ Victory Fund endorsed candidate Robert Zimmerman won the Democratic primary for New York’s 3rd U.S. House District. If elected, he would be the first out LGBTQ person elected to Congress from Long Island.
According to LGBTQ Victory Institute’s Out for America Map which tracks out LGBTQ elected officials nationally, there are currently just 11 out LGBTQ people serving in Congress. To reach equitable representation, America must elect an additional 21 out LGBTQ people to the U.S. House of Representatives and five out LGBTQ people to the U.S. Senate.
Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund, issued the following statement about his win:
“Robert’s win tonight is a testament to his proven leadership, exceptional qualifications and grassroots support. From growing up closeted in the 1970s to now being the Democratic nominee, he has proven time and time again his unwavering belief – and determination – that progress is not just possible, but necessary. As legislation moves through Congress to codify same-sex marriage, reproductive health care access and other critical rights for our community, we are confident Robert will be a fearless voice for his community and LGBTQ people across the country.”
Victory Fund named Zimmerman a Game Changer candidate, a designation given to federal or state candidates in history-making races, that comes with additional support and services from LGBTQ Victory Fund to ensure they win on Election Day.
More information about all of Victory Fund’s endorsed candidates is available at victoryfund.org/ourcandidates.
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LGBTQ Victory Fund
LGBTQ Victory Fund works to achieve and sustain equality by increasing the number of openly LGBTQ elected officials at all levels of government while ensuring they reflect the diversity of those they serve. Since 1991, Victory Fund has helped thousands of openly LGBTQ candidates win local, state and federal elections.