2024 Research

LGBTQ+ Women and Nonbinary Leaders in Politics

What Needed to Be Addressed:

LPAC’s experience working with LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary candidates has indicated that a shifting political and funding landscape has significantly impacted campaigns. LPAC-endorsed candidates face unique challenges, and better understanding the qualitative and quantitative data surrounding their experiences running for office help us to better provide support and guidance.


Candidate Survey:

Lake Research Partners designed an online survey for LPAC-endorsed candidates that was administered and conducted from September 19 – October 14, 2024, on behalf of Project LPAC. The survey was completed by 84 out of the 381 endorsed candidates invited to participate. Candidates surveyed were a mix between those currently holding office and not holding office, at all levels of government.


Key findings from this project are below. You can view a comprehensive research deck here

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Key Research Findings:

What Sets LPAC Candidates Apart

  • Mission-Driven: LPAC candidates are motivated by the political landscape, pressing community issues, and their opponents. Notably, candidates of color often cite being asked by someone in their community as their top reason for running.



  • Making History: Over 60% of LPAC-endorsed candidates are pioneers, being the first openly LGBTQ or nonbinary individuals to run for their office. This is especially significant for people of color (79%), candidates under 50 (70%), and current officeholders (64%).

Why LPAC's Support is Critical

  • Challenges in Campaigning: Seventy-six percent of our candidates believe it is harder for LGBTQ female and nonbinary candidates to campaign compared to LGBTQ male candidates.



  • The Role of LPAC: Financial support is a lifeline, with candidates frequently citing LPAC’s contributions as pivotal in running their campaigns.

Looking to 2025 and Beyond

  • Encouraging Persistence: Despite not winning, 64% of non-elected candidates are willing to run again, with 40% being very willing.



  • Positive Campaign Experiences: An overwhelming 79% of our candidates reported a positive experience running for office, with many eager to join a community of LGBTQ and nonbinary individuals for support (80%).
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