U.S.A.: Aime Wichtendahl becomes Iowa’s first trans legislator

Aime Wichtendahl first made history as Iowa’s first openly trans woman elected to government when chosen for the Hiawatha City Council. She further made history this Election Day by becoming Iowa’s first trans legislator.

According to ‘Washington Blade’, Wichtendahl maintained the Democratic hold on the seat by defeating Republican opponent John Thompson, securing 52% of the vote compared to Thompson's 48%. She will take over from Art Staed (D), who successfully ran for a state Senate position, with full backing from the Democratic support base.

Days before the election, Wichtendahl outlined her platform on social media, emphasising her plans to:

Repeal the abortion ban
Legalise marijuana
Invest in public education
Support unions
Defend civil rights

In a statement to The Gazette, Wichtendahl expressed her gratitude for making history, noting, “It shows that Iowans and Americans at large are tired of the culture war politics and anti-trans legislation and will vote for leaders who prioritize their well being and work for them to get ahead.”