Five-time congressman Jared Polis could soon become the first openly gay man elected governor in the United States, with the Democrat winning his primary race in Colorado earlier this week.
Earning 45 per cent of the vote, Polis campaigned on progressive including single-payer healthcare, free preschool and gun reform.
“I think it really gives Colorado an opportunity to stick a thumb in the eye of Mike Pence, whose view of America is not as inclusive as where America is today,” Polis said during a recent campaign speech, according to
“Tonight Jared Polis pulled off a huge victory and is on-track to become the first openly gay man elected governor of a US state,” said President and CEO of Annise Parker.
She continued: “While it is a historic and promising night for the LGBTQ community, primary voters chose Jared not because he could be a historic first, but because of his unquestionable integrity and positive vision for Coloradans."
"Voters will have a stark choice in November – between a long-time public servant who governs with values, and the Republican nominee who stands behind the divisive rhetoric and destructive policies of Donald Trump."
"I am confident Coloradans stand with Jared,” she concluded.
Polis will face off against Republican Walker Stapleton in November, however, Colorado hasn’t had a Republican win the seat since 2007.
It's not the first time Polis, a former businessman, has made history. When he was elected to Congress in 2008, he became the first openly gay man to win a seat as a non-incumbent.
He and his partner, Marlon Reis, have two children together.
