Salt Lake City officially elects openly gay mayor
Salt Lake City, home to the Mormon Church, has officially elected an openly lesbian Mayor.
The Utah city is known as the home of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has strict anti-LGBT doctrines and recently branded gay people ‘apostates’.
Despite the Church’s influence, it was confirmed this week that openly gay Democrat Jackie Biskupski has been elected as the city’s first lesbian mayor.
The politician was up against incumbent Mayor Ralph Becker in a vote earlier this month. The news was confirmed on Tuesday as the final result was declared.
Ms Biskupski picked up 17,290 votes (52.19 percent), outstripping Mayor Becker’s 15,840 votes (47.81 percent).
The new Mayor said: “We are very aware that today is very historic.
“But today is not just about making history, it’s about people. It’s about affecting change for the sake of so many people in this community who felt they had not been heard. We will move forward today with ears wide open and there is no question, you will be heard.
“When I began this race on January 31st, I set out to make a difference, to be the mayor of the people, and to make City Hall an open, transparent, and collaborative partner with the residents of Salt Lake City.
“I am deeply humbled that our message has resonated with voters.”
Try Williams of Equality Utah said: “Equality Utah congratulates Jackie Biskupski for her historic win.
“Her victory sends a powerful message to all LGBTQ Utahns that their sexual orientation will never be a limitation to public service. We look forward to working alongside Mayor-elect Biskupski to advance policies that will benefit all Utahns.”
She will take office in January.
