Key 2017 Elections Occured for Governorships and State Legislature Positions

On this past Election Day, November 7th, 2017, many key elections occurred for governorships and state legislature positions. Notable elections included the Governor of New Jersey and a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Phil Murphy, a stark contrast to current two-term Governor of the Garden State Chris Christie, has promoted much change for the state. Mr. Murphy has never closed down a bridge for political revenge, supports a $15 minimum wage, gun control, and the legalization of marijuana. He also speaks of his vows to stand up to President Trump. Previously an executive at a large investment company, Mr. Murphy became a progressive candidate to suit the values of the Democratic Party. He will take office as Governor of New Jersey on January 18th, 2018.

The first openly transgender lawmaker, Danica Roem, was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. A journalist for over nine years and Democrat, Roem defeated the Republican incumbent, Bob Marshall, who has proposed numerous pieces of legislation that discriminate against the LGBTQ community, most notably the “bathoom bill” of 2016 that banned students from using the bathroom that conforms with their gender identity. Despite Ms. Roem beginning her transition in 2012, coming out as transgender in 2013, and legally changing her name in 2015, Mr. Marshall repeatedly used male pronouns while referring to Roem. Marshall has held the seat for 25 years and his defeat showcases democracy at its finest. “Discrimination is a disqualifier,” Roem said on Tuesday night as her victory became apparent. Danica Roem will take office in the Virginia House of Delegates as a representative from the 13th district on January 8th, 2018.

In light of recent elections and the Trump administration, Democrats hope that the outcomes of Election Day 2017 have set the tone for the midterm elections next year.