The first big win in the anticipated rainbow wave
Jared Polis is a history-maker in today’s midterm elections in the United States. He is officially the first openly gay man elected a state governor.
Polis ran as the Democratic candidate in Colorado’s gubernatorial race. He was declared the victor with 52% of the votes after 57% of the precincts reporting.
He ran opposing Republican candidate Walker Stapleton, who took 44.9% of the votes. Third-party candidates Scott Helker (Libertarian) and Bill Hammons (Unity Party of Colorado) took 2.4% and 0.9% of the votes, respectively.
‘Tonight, Colorado rejected the Trump-Pence administration’s politics of bigotry and fear by choosing bold pro-equality champion Jared Polis, the nation’s first openly gay man elected governor,’ said Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin.
‘For nearly a decade in Congress, Jared Polis fought to advance fairness and equality in Colorado and across America. He is a proven leader who will take his commitment to securing full equality to the governor’s mansion and fight to make Colorado a stronger and more inclusive state.’
Earlier today, a gay Democrat won in Guam and anti-marriage equality figure Kim Davis lost her re-election.
‘He has the courage’
Polis has served as the representative from Colorado’s 2nd congressional district since 2009.
He is a vocal supporter of numerous progressive issues, including LGBTI rights and education reform. During his career, he sponsored bills for both improvements to school lunches, as well as funding special education.
He also advocates for safer campuses and altering disciplinary processes regarding accusations of rape and sexual assault.
Civil Rights icon and House of Representatives member John Lewis endorsed Polis in his bid for governorship.
‘Jared and I have worked together for years to expand civil rights and to make healthcare more affordable to millions,’ Lewis said.
‘I’m proud to call Jared my friend. He has the courage to be a great governor for Colorado.’
by Anya Crittenton
Source – Gay Star News
