Among Liberty City LGBT Democratic Club’s endorsements for the upcoming primary election is Malcolm Kenyatta, especially notable because if he wins, he will be the first openly gay person of color to serve in the state legislature.
The Liberty City LGBT Democratic Club announced its 2018 primary endorsements on April 9 at the William Way LGBT Community Center on April 9.
To earn Liberty City’s endorsement, Democratic candidates must fill out a questionnaire detailing his or her positions on a variety of issues; the club then holds a candidates’ night, where those seeking LGBT support come and talk to members.
Liberty City is an LGBT political-action committee that encourages and supports viable candidates for public office. The group focuses primarily on Philadelphia and southeastern Pennsylvania candidates.
Malcolm Kenyatta is running for a seat in the State House for the 181st District, which covers the Feltonville, Francisville, Glenwood, Hunting Park, Kensington, Northern Liberties and West Poplar sections of North Philadelphia.
“I think what’s important about the Liberty City endorsement process is that it’s done in a very open, member-focused way,” said Kenyatta. “People in that organization really care about who they support. Candidates are asked tough questions, both in their survey and in person.”
Kenyatta called Liberty City’s involvement “impactful,” not only in electing more LGBT candidates, but also in involving community allies. “I feel very humbled and proud to participate in their process. And I think their involvement is impactful.”
Pennsylvania’s primary elections will be held on May 15.
LIBERTY CITY LGBT DEMOCRATIC CLUB 2018 PRIMARY ENDORSEMENTS
Governor Tom Wolf
Lt. Governor No endorsement
U.S. Senator Bob Casey
U.S. Congressional
2nd DistrictBrendan Boyle
3rd DistrictDwight Evans
4th DistrictMadeleine Dean
5th DistrictRich Lazar
6th DistrictChrissy Houlahan
State Senate
2nd DistrictTina Tartaglio
4th DistrictArt Harwood
6th DistrictTina Davis
State House
154th DistrictStephen McCarter
161st DistrictLeann Krueger-Braneky
175th DistrictMike O’Brien
177th DistrictJoe Hohenstein
181st DistrictMalcolm Kenyatta
182nd DistrictBrian Sims
184th DistrictElizabeth Fiedler
188th DistrictJames Roebuck
191st DistrictJoanne McClinton
194th DistrictPam DiLicio
195th DistrictDonna Bullock
197th DistrictDanilo Burgos
200th DistrictChris Rabb