Washington, DC – Today, Equality PAC Co-Chairs Chairman Mark Takano (D-CA) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) announced the endorsement of Victor Reyes in the special election for New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District. Reyes, a progressive Democrat, is running to replace Rep. Deb Haaland, who is President Biden’s nominee for Secretary of the Interior. If elected, Reyes would make history as New Mexico’s first LGBTQ+ member of Congress.
“Victor Reyes will be the first LGBTQ+ person of color to represent New Mexico in Congress, growing the diversity of our caucus and increasing Latino representation in the House,” said Equality PAC Co-Chair Chairman Mark Takano. “Equality PAC is proud to stand with Victor in this important campaign, which will be one of the first races since the inauguration of President Biden where Democrats will be fighting to defend our majority. In Congress, Victor will be a fierce advocate in helping pass the Equality Act while working to end discrimination for every American – no matter their gender, color of their skin, or who they love.”
“Victor is running a strong, grassroots campaign and represents the next generation of progressive leadership in New Mexico,” said Equality PAC Co-Chair Congressman David Cicilline. “Victor brings with him a diverse set of experiences and a strong voice that is desperately needed in the House and in our caucus. We know representation matters and we look forward to working with Victor to help him win this race.”
Reyes served as a top aide in Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration and as chair of New Mexico’s Community Development Council where he helped lead the administration’s efforts to support educators, put a stop to gun violence, build and diversify New Mexico’s economy, protect our environment, and stand up for LGBTQ+ rights. Reyes also serves as the national Board Chair of Catholics for Choice and has built an impressive record of progressive advocacy as a community organizer and advocate across the state.
Equality PAC is the political arm of the Congressional LGBTQ Equality Caucus and is dedicated tothe full legal and societal equality for LGBTQ Americans. All funds raised into Equality PAC are spent supporting and electing openly LGBTQ individuals and strong LGBTQ allies to the United States Congress and Senate who are committed to passing the Equality ACT and to ensuring fullcivil rights and protections for all LGBTQ Americans. In total, Equality PAC raised over $6.3m for Equality PAC during the previous two-year cycle — with generous supporters in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico and throughout the business community. In addition to this, Equality PAC raised over $2.7m directly for our endorsed LGBTQ congressional candidates and funded crucial independent expenditures.
To learn more about Victor Reyes and his campaign, please visit victorreyes.org.
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Date: January 25, 2021
Contact: Jeff Larivee, (202) 821-5203
