Finding Hope When We Need It Most - LPAC’s Impact This Election

A message from LPAC’s Executive Director, Janelle Perez

Last week, we mourned the dream of Kamala Harris becoming the first woman, the first woman of color, and the first South Asian person to serve as President of the United States. LPAC is so proud to be the first national LGBTQ organization that endorsed her. For so many young people, especially little girls—including my own—she represented the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future.

We also grieve for the vision of an America where everyone, no matter who they are, is treated with fairness and dignity, and where our fundamental rights are protected. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging. But amid this uncertainty, we find hope and inspiration in the victories that lit up Election Night.

LPAC Election Night Victories: A Beacon of Hope

It was a good night for LPAC, and there is hope for America. Out of 174 LPAC candidates on the ballot Tuesday, 138 races have been called, and 111 of our candidates have emerged victorious. Notably, 57 of these wins came in states that went to Trump. 

 As it stands, our Election Day win rate is an incredible 80 percent! With 36 races still left to be decided, and with our candidates leading in 17 of these races, we project our final win rate will be above 70 percent—an outstanding achievement. In many instances, LPAC was the first and/or only LGBTQ+ organization to endorse these candidates, and in several key races, we were pivotal to their success.

With Senator Tammy Baldwin winning re-election, we have protected LGBTQ+ representation in the U.S. Senate. Our Congressional champion incumbents - Becca Balint, Sharice Davids, and Angie Craig - will be joined by Julie Johnson, Sarah McBride, and Emily Randall, doubling our bench in the House of Representatives. In state legislatures, inspiring trailblazers like Gabby Salinas in Tennessee, Keturah Herron in Kentucky, and Lisa Grafstein in North Carolina will stand strong for our communities, fighting discrimination and defending our rights. 

Why Our Work Matters More Than Ever
Friends, LPAC’s work is essential to the path forward. We were key partners in the Harris/Walz campaign and made some of our largest investments in Wisconsin, knowing that these efforts could tip the balance. And we made history in Congress and state legislatures across the country, electing champions who will do everything in their power to defend our rights against the incoming administration’s attacks. Our founders believed in a vision of true equality and representation, and one of those founders, Urvashi Vaid, showed us that meaningful change comes from unwavering dedication. In the past few months, we’ve drawn inspiration from her legacy as we face new challenges. There is still work to do, and LPAC is ready to lead the way.

Let’s hold our loved ones close and remember why we fight. We are not alone. The movement for equality and democracy continues, powered by our resilience and commitment. We will push for an America where everyone can live openly, proudly, and without fear. The victories of today remind us that progress is possible, and with your continued support, we will build on that momentum.

Take heart in these wins, and know that we will keep fighting for you. Together, we will move forward, and we will never stop working toward a more just and inclusive America.