LGBTQ+ Stories You Should Know About

Daniel Hernández Jr. Surges Ahead in AZ-07 Special Election

AZ‑07 Special Election Primary Next Tuesday! Daniel Hernández is heading into the July 15 special primary well-positioned. He’s currently leading the Democratic fundraising race, with nearly $1 million raised by late June, outpacing his rivals including Adelita Grijalva and Deja Foxx.

In a recent interview with KOLD, Hernández emphasized his commitment to protecting vital programs like Medicaid from looming budget cuts, showcasing a strong vision for the district. He also penned an op-ed in The Arizona Daily Star outlining his vision and commitment to Arizona – read it here!

Next Tuesday’s primary will determine who advances to the September 23 special general election to fill the seat left vacant by the late Rep. Raúl Grijalva. Learn more about his campaign here!

JoAnna Mendoza, Kevin Morrison, and Jeremy Moss among latest endorsements!

LGBTQ+ Victory Fund proudly announced 21 new endorsements for the 2025–2026 cycle, reinforcing our commitment to building a pro-equality Congress and adding more pro-equality voices to the Virginia House in 2025!

Among these, three standout 2026 U.S. House candidates - but notable non-incumbents - were JoAnna Mendoza (AZ), Kevin Morrison (IL), and Jeremy Moss (MI), each endorsed for their trailblazing potential and community-driven campaigns. These dynamic newcomers join a broader slate of endorsed candidates working to expand LGBTQ+ representation and advance pro-LGBTQ+ policies at the federal level.

Victory in the Empire State: LGBTQ+ leaders win big

We’re thrilled to celebrate a slate of powerful LGBTQ+ victories in New York!

Brad Hoylman-Sigal won the Democratic nomination for Manhattan Borough President, positioning him to become the first out LGBTQ+ person to hold the office. Justin Sanchez secured his primary for New York City Council, a major step towards joining the growing ranks of LGBTQ+ leadership!

Crystal Hudson and Chi Ossé both won reelection to the City Council, continuing their trailblazing leadership in Brooklyn. These wins are not just personal milestones - they’re victories for visibility, progress, and our community’s future. Onward to November!

Supreme Court strikes major blows to LGBTQ+ rights in June 2025

In June 2025, the Supreme Court issued several rulings that have serious implications for LGBTQ+ rights, following a ruling against trans service members in May:

In Mahmoud v. Taylor (June 27, 2025), the Court ruled 6–3 that parents must be allowed to opt their children out of public school lessons featuring LGBTQ+-themed books, reinforcing religious liberty at the expense of inclusive curriculum.

On June 18, the Court upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors, a 6–3 decision supporting state restrictions and directing lower courts to revisit rulings in North Carolina, West Virginia, Idaho, and Oklahoma in light of the ruling.

What’s next? In the 2025–26 term, the Court has agreed to hear a major case - Chiles v. Salazar - challenging Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy for minors. The decision will determine whether such professional bans violate the First Amendment or can be upheld as protections for LGBTQ+ youth.