Activist Andrea Marra running to be first trans elected official in New York

Activist Andrea Marra has announced that she is running for a seat in the New York Senate, and if she wins she will be the first trans woman to be elected in the state.

She would also be the first Asian American elected to the New York State Senate if her bid is successful.

(Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Related: Trans politician and her wife victim of multiple violent hate crimes in their hometown

Marra is taking on current seat holder, Democrat José Peralta, to be a representative in District 13 in the state, meaning that she will represent Queens, Astoria and Jackson Heights – all neighbourhoods in New York City.

Speaking about her challenge to the candidacy, Marra explained that she hoped to replace Peralta because he is a “turncoat”.

Peralta is one of the few Democrats who are part of the Independent Democratic Conference (IDC), a group which supports Republican leadership in the Senate.

“We need new, honest leadership to protect and expand affordable housing; modernise the broken MTA; deliver the funding our schools need and deserve; and invest in New York’s overburdened public hospitals,” she said.

Related: Japan just elected its first trans man into public office

Marra has led a long career in activism for LGBTQ causes.

• Nov 29

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