Danica Roem

Danica Roem is an American politician who made history by becoming the first openly transgender person to be elected to a state legislature in the United States. She was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2017, representing the 13th district of Virginia. Roem's election was seen as a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States, with support from organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and the National Center for Transgender Equality. Her campaign was also endorsed by prominent figures like Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren.

● Early Life and Education

Danica Roem was born on September 30, 1984, in Manassas, Virginia, to John Roem and Carol Roem. She grew up in Prince William County, Virginia, and attended St. Bonaventure University in Olean, New York, where she earned a degree in journalism from the Russell J. Jandoli School of Journalism and Mass Communication. During her time at St. Bonaventure University, Roem was involved in the St. Bonaventure University student newspaper, the Bona Venture, and was also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. After college, Roem worked as a journalist for the Gainesville Times and the Prince William Times, covering local news and events in Prince William County, Virginia, and Fauquier County, Virginia.

● Career

Before entering politics, Danica Roem worked as a journalist for over a decade, covering local news and events for various publications, including the Gainesville Times, the Prince William Times, and the Loudoun Times-Mirror. Her work as a journalist took her to various parts of Northern Virginia, including Loudoun County, Virginia, Fairfax County, Virginia, and Arlington County, Virginia. Roem's experience as a journalist helped her develop strong communication skills, which she later utilized in her political career, working with organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. She also drew inspiration from prominent journalists like Nicholas Kristof and Sarah Kendzior, who are known for their work in investigative journalism.

● Political Career

Danica Roem's entry into politics was marked by her historic election to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2017. She defeated Bob Marshall, a long-time incumbent and conservative Republican who had held the seat for over two decades. Roem's campaign focused on issues like transportation infrastructure, education reform, and healthcare access, which resonated with voters in the 13th district of Virginia. Her election was seen as a significant victory for the Democratic Party and the LGBTQ+ community, with support from organizations like the Victory Fund and the National LGBTQ Task Force. Roem has also worked with other prominent politicians, including Ralph Northam, Mark Herring, and Jennifer Wexton, on various legislative initiatives.

● Personal Life

Danica Roem is openly transgender and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice causes. She has spoken publicly about her experiences as a trans woman and has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, including discrimination, violence, and mental health. Roem has also been involved with organizations like the Trevor Project and the It Gets Better Project, which provide support and resources to LGBTQ+ youth. Her personal story has inspired many, including Caitlyn Jenner, Laverne Cox, and Janet Mock, who are all prominent figures in the LGBTQ+ community.

● Elections

Danica Roem's election to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2017 was a historic moment for the LGBTQ+ community and the Democratic Party. She won the election with over 54% of the vote, defeating Bob Marshall and becoming the first openly transgender person to be elected to a state legislature in the United States. Roem's campaign was supported by various organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, the National Center for Transgender Equality, and the Victory Fund. She has since been re-elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2019 and 2021, continuing to represent the 13th district of Virginia and advocating for issues like transportation infrastructure, education reform, and healthcare access. Roem's electoral success has been recognized by prominent figures like Barack Obama, Kamala Harris, and Pete Buttigieg, who have all praised her commitment to public service and social justice.