We’re just as excited as the next person for the 2016 election season to be behind us. While a good portion of that has to do with the unprecedented divisiveness fostered by the Republican nominee for president, there’s also a real cause for hope depending on the results of this election.
On this front page, we outlined our endorsements for the Nov. 8 election. We already laid out our reasons for supporting Hillary Clinton for president (see epgn.com), and many of the down-ballot candidates we’re backing embrace similar positions and plans for advancing LGBT equality, along with programs to foster economic growth, promote diversity and ensure needed reforms in the educational system.
Katie McGinty has a strong pro-LGBT platform and has pledged to champion LGBT issues if elected to the U.S. Senate. Apart from her positions, McGinty deserves our community’s backing especially in light of the context of the race. Incumbent Sen. Pat Toomey has never been a friend to the LGBT community; by removing him from office, we can ensure another voice of fairness in the U.S. Senate, whose support could help advance legislation like the Equality Act, which would federally ban LGBT discrimination. Not to mention, Pennsylvania’s Congressional delegation could use some diversity; all 20 members are currently men.
Also looking to diversify that unit is Mary Ellen Balchunis, whom we endorse for the Seventh District in Congress. She is also looking to unseat a Republican — Congressman Pat Meehan — whose support for LGBT issues has been too tepid to earn our backing.
Three top-level state positions are up for grabs and we endorse Josh Shapiro for attorney general, Eugene DePasquale for auditor general and Joe Torsella for treasurer. All three have laid out stated plans for ensuring transparency and diversity in their respective offices and have a demonstrated record of supporting LGBT equality.
With the election of these forward-thinking candidates, our city, state and country can continue its path toward progress — not just on LGBT issues, but the array of other issues impacting our vibrantly diverse community and the many causes about which our members care.
On Nov. 8, we all have the opportunity to help shape the future of our country. Voting is not just a right, but a responsibility. Take that obligation seriously, and make your voice heard on Election Day.