DOVER, Del. (AP) — Sarah McBride has carved her name in history once more, recently becoming the first openly transgender member elected to Congress after her tenure as the first openly transgender state senator in the United States. This significant promotion occurs amidst a divisive climate for transgender rights, particularly in Republican-led states that are pursuing legislation aimed at limiting such rights. Despite a challenging election environment marked by negative campaign ads against transgender individuals, McBride was able to secure her position representing Delaware in the U.S. House of Representatives with ease.

Even before she officially starts her congressional duties, McBride has encountered resistance from some congressional Republicans. Notably, Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina has introduced a proposal banning transgender individuals from using restrooms that align with their gender identity within the U.S. Capitol — a measure that was sanctioned by House Speaker Mike Johnson. Nevertheless, McBride has expressed her intention to maintain decorum, stating, “I’m not here to fight about bathrooms.” Her calm demeanor is emblematic of her pragmatic approach to politics, where she values bipartisanship over confrontation.

Reflecting on her historical ascent, McBride noted, “There is so much joy and so much awe in having this opportunity, and I will not let anyone take that away from me.” As she prepares to transition from her role in the small Delaware Senate — where shared experiences foster camaraderie — McBride highlighted the essence of collegiality in contrast to the vitriol often prevalent in Washington politics.

During her last day in office, McBride delivered heartfelt farewells to her colleagues. “Despite the rancor and the toxicity that we too often see in our politics, we do genuinely have more in common than what divides us,” she concluded her speech, advocating for a “politics of grace” over “grandstanding.”

McBride’s political journey is punctuated by a series of pioneering achievements. From her early years, growing up in Wilmington, where she would practice Democratic speeches, to becoming the first openly transgender woman to intern at the White House, her path has been anything but ordinary. After coming out as transgender at the age of 21, she transformed personal trials into advocacy, being instrumental in passing a transgender nondiscrimination law in Delaware.

Her commitment to service is further illustrated through her legislative work, which has garnered bipartisan approval for critical issues such as affordable housing and healthcare. McBride has consistently demonstrated an earnest desire to engage with colleagues across the aisle and to drive meaningful change.

Her rise in politics, however, is also intertwined with personal tragedy. McBride married Andrew Cray, a trans man and health policy advocate, only to face his terminal cancer diagnosis soon after. Reflecting on that experience profoundly shaped her perspective on healthcare and support systems, she stated, “It is a moral failing of our society and our country” to allow individuals to endure hardship without adequate support.

As McBride steps into her new role, she carries with her lessons of compassion and resilience, often invoking memories of her late husband for guidance. She expressed a determination to respond to challenges with kindness, arguing that a diverse democracy must be built on a foundation of grace. “I will seek to summon it,” she affirmed, emphasizing her commitment to navigate the complexities ahead with firm yet gentle resolve.

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