Openly gay state Rep. Brian Sims (D-182nd Dist.) formally announced this week that he will seek re-election.
Sims defeated longtime incumbent Rep. Babette Josephs in last year’s primary and ran unopposed in the general election, becoming Pennsylvania’s first openly gay elected lawmaker.
In his freshman year, Sims cosponsored legislation to ban LGBT discrimination and to better protect LGBT students, as well as advocated for reforms in education and mass transit, among other issues. He also plans to lead bills to advance marriage equality and to prohibit conversion therapy for minors. “Since my inauguration 10 months ago, my staff and I have worked tirelessly to serve our constituents, fight for equality and seek common-sense legislative solutions to the problems Pennsylvanians face,” he said.
Sims’ campaign will be led by the Sims4PA political-action committee, which recently seated its executive director, Joe Corrigan.
Corrigan previously served as Philadelphia Councilwoman Cindy Bass’ director of communication.
“It is important that we find and retain young, energetic progressives like Brian for elected office to fight for progressive values like improved education funding, marriage equality and infrastructure improvement,” Corrigan said.
Sims said Corrigan “brings a wealth of political, fundraising and communications experience in Philadelphia and in surrounding counties, as well as the dedication, tenacity and vigor I need to run a strong campaign.”
No other candidates have formally announced if they will challenge Sims in the 2014 primary.