LPAC's August 2023 Endorsements
Washington D.C. (August 14, 2023) – LPAC, the only organization dedicated to electing LGBTQ women and nonbinary people to local, state, and federal office, is thrilled to announce our endorsement of ten exciting candidates -- all running at the local level. These LGBTQ women and nonbinary individuals are committed public servants, dedicated to making change in their communities. You can find out more about each candidate below.
Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma Commission (WA)
When Commissioner Kristin Ang was elected in 2019, she became the first person of color ever elected to the Port of Tacoma Commission! We're happy to support her for re-election.
Guyleen Castriotta, Mayor of Broomfield (CO)
Mayor Guyleen Castriotta was the first openly lesbian candidate elected to the Broomfield City Council! She was unanimously appointed to Mayor Pro Tem in 2019 and elected to a full term as Mayor in 2021. LPAC is thrilled to support her again in her re-election campaign.
Olgy Diaz, Tacoma City Council (WA) Councilmember
Olgy Diaz is running for a full term on the Tacoma City Council in Washington State. She was first appointed in 2022 out of a competitive group of 42 applicants!
Sophia Hawes-Tingey, West Valley City Council (UT)
Sophia Hawes-Tingey is a software engineer and US Navy Veteran running for an at-large seat on West Valley City Council in Utah. Sophia is focused on advocating for trans rights, environmental issues, and equitable healthcare.
Olivia Hill, Nashville City Council (TN)
Olivia Hill is running an historic campaign for one of five at-large seats on the Nashville Metro Council. She advanced to the September runoff election in a strong position. If elected, Olivia would be the first trans person elected in the state of Tennessee, a powerful statement in a state that has been a hotbed for anti-trans legislation.
Rolanda Kelley, Ferndale City Council (MI)
Rolanda Kelley is the founder of the Unity Fund PAC, which works to elect LGBTQ people across Michigan. Rolanda would be the first out LGBTQ woman ever elected to Ferndale City Council!
Thu Nguyen, Worcester City Council (MA)
In 2021, Councilor Thu Nguyen became the first nonbinary person elected in Massachusetts history! They are running for re-election to one of six at-large seats on the Worcester City Council in Massachusetts, and LPAC is proud to support them in their re-election campaign.
LaWana Slack-Mayfield, Charlotte City Council (NC)
Council Member LaWana Slack-Mayfield is running for re-election to an at-large seat on the Charlotte City Council. She was the first LGBTQ person elected city-wide, and previously made history as the first LGBTQ person elected to the City Council after winning a district seat in 2011.
Ashley Smith, Franklin City Council (PA)
Ashley Smith is running unopposed for a seat on the Franklin City Council in Pennsylvania. She is a native of the city of Franklin and is already a strong leader in her community.
Heather Waters, Manlius Town Board (NY)
First elected as the top vote-getter in 2019, Councilor Heather Waters is running for re-election to the Manlius Town Board in update New York!
Onward!
- Team LPAC
Above (l-r): Kristin Ang, Guyleen Castriotta, Olgy Diaz, Sophia Hawes-Tingey, Olivia HIll, Rolanda Kelley
Below (l-r): Thu Nguyen, LaWana Slack-Mayfield, Ashley Smith, Heather Waters