LGBTQ Icon Jim Obergefell Wins Ohio Primary
Jim Obergefell, a queer activist and LGBTQ icon, has stepped into politics. Obergefell is running to be Ohio’s state representative. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Obergefell is famously known for the legendary Supreme Court case, Obergefell v. Hodges, which granted the constitutional right to same-gender marriage back in 2015. Jim Obergefell, being from Ohio all his life, is a proud Ohioan, and wants to do his part in improving the state.
He ran unopposed as a democratic candidate and won the primary in Ohio. Now, he will face republican candidate D.J. Swearingen in November. Swearingen currently holds the House of Representatives seat for Ohio and is facing potential reelection for a second term.
“I don’t mind being the underdog. I’m not afraid to take on any issue when it’s the right thing to do. Doing the right thing is never wrong. I’ve spent my life standing up and stepping forward to ensure everyone is treated equally with dignity and respect, and I will bring that same fighting spirit as your state representative,” Obergefell says.
In running for Ohio House, Obergefell aims to increase jobs and opportunities for those in his district along Lake Erie. This is his solution for a large number of people moving away out of necessity. He’s emphasized wanting to improve access to healthcare and protect the environment.
“With so much at stake for our nation, I will also be a voice and advocate for all Ohioans and especially underserved and marginalized communities,” the democratic candidate says.
Since Roe v. Wade was overturned, Justice Clarance Thomas has made remarks on same-gender marriage that sparked concern over it being overturned.
Having Obergefell, the plaintiff of the revolutionary case, in the House of Representatives can be seen as “a rallying cry to the LGBTQ community and our allies that we won’t stop organizing, we won’t stop running for office and we won’t back down,” says Annise Parker, LGBTQ Victory Fund president and CEO. Winning the primary brings him one step close to being Ohio’s state representative.
Photo courtesy of Jim Obergefell on obergefellforohio.com
