Pennsylvania elects its first out trans mayorhttps://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/11/pennsylvania-elects-its-first-out-trans-mayor/ 🔗Faefyx Collington (5 Nov 2025)
Democrat Erica Deuso won her mayoral race in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, in Chester County last night, beating Republican challenger, Richard Bryant, and becoming the state's first out trans mayor.
"Tonight, history was made," Deuso said in a statement. "Voters chose hope, decency, and a vision of community where every neighbor matters. I am deeply honored to be elected as Pennsylvania's first openly transgender mayor, and I don't take that responsibility lightly. This victory isn't about one person, it's about what happens when people come together to choose progress over fear."
Born in Vermont, Deuso has lived in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, since 2007. She describes herself as a scientist, businesswoman, and advocate for marginalized communities, and she serves on the boards for the Pennsylvania Equality Project, Emerge Pennsylvania, and PFLAG West Chester/Chester County. She is also an Executive Committee member for Chester County Democratic Committee.
Similar to the campaign run by Sarah McBride, the first out trans member of Congress, Deuso did not campaign on her gender identity or with a focus on LGBTQ+ issues. But her campaign still received some hate. "I'm not running on being trans, that's not something I ever do or ever wanted to do," Deuso told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "I wanted to make it about the neighbors. It's the other side making it about who I am, my identity."
Her platform focused on improving traffic control, combating domestic violence, promoting sustainable infrastructure and flood mitigation, and bringing people together in community spaces.
