40 Facts About Sarah McBride

Early Life and Education

Sarah McBride's journey began in Wilmington, Delaware, where she was born to a supportive family. Her early years laid the foundation for her future advocacy.

1. Sarah McBride was born on August 9, 1990, in Wilmington, Delaware.
2. Her parents, David and Sally McBride, played significant roles in her upbringing. David was a lawyer, and Sally was a guidance counselor and founder of the Cab Calloway School of the Arts.
3. McBride graduated from Cab Calloway School of the Arts in 2009.
4. She pursued a bachelor's degree in government from American University, completing it in 2013.

Political Beginnings

Sarah's interest in politics sparked early, leading her to work on various campaigns and eventually stepping into the political arena herself.

5. McBride worked as a staffer on several campaigns in Delaware, including those of Governor Jack Markell in 2008 and Attorney General Beau Biden in 2010.
6. In 2011, she was elected student body president at American University.
7. During her tenure as student body president, McBride came out as a transgender woman in the college's student newspaper, The Eagle, in 2012.
8. After coming out, she received a call from Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, expressing his pride and support.

Advocacy and Achievements

Sarah McBride quickly became a leading voice for LGBTQ+ rights, making significant strides in advocacy and legislation.

9. McBride interned at the White House during the Obama administration, becoming the first openly transgender woman to work there in any capacity.
10. She joined the board of directors of Equality Delaware in January 2013.
11. McBride played a pivotal role in lobbying for legislation protecting transgender individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, insurance, and public accommodations.
12. In 2013, she led the successful effort to pass a landmark non-discrimination law in Delaware.

Making History

Sarah's groundbreaking achievements have set numerous precedents, inspiring many within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

13. In July 2016, McBride became the first openly transgender person to address a major party convention, delivering a speech at the Democratic National Convention.
14. In 2018, she published her memoir, Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the Fight for Trans Equality, with a foreword by Joe Biden.
15. McBride married her late husband, Andrew Cray, in 2014.
16. In the November 2020 election, McBride won a seat in the Delaware Senate, becoming the first openly transgender state senator in the United States.

Legislative Impact

Sarah's work in the Delaware Senate has led to significant legislative achievements, benefiting many residents of her state.

17. During her first term, McBride passed several significant pieces of legislation.
18. She championed the Healthy Delaware Families Act, providing paid family and medical leave to workers throughout the state.
19. McBride serves as chair of the Senate Health & Social Services Committee.
20. She is also a member of several other committees, including the Senate Housing Committee, Senate Corrections & Public Safety Committee, Senate Judiciary Committee, and the Joint Legislative Oversight and Sunset Committee.

Community and Recognition

Sarah's dedication to her community and her advocacy work has earned her widespread recognition and support.

21. McBride is known for her strong community ties and has been recognized for her efforts on paid family leave and Medicaid expansion.
22. She has received support from prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations like the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund and the Human Rights Campaign.
23. In the 2024 primary election, McBride won the Democratic nomination for Delaware's at-large congressional district.
24. Her congressional campaign focuses on expanding access to affordable healthcare, safeguarding reproductive rights, and raising the minimum wage.

Personal Reflections and Support

Sarah's journey is marked by personal courage and the unwavering support of her family and community.

25. McBride first gained national attention in April 2012 when she publicly came out as a transgender woman.
26. In a speech in May 2015, Second Lady Jill Biden recognized McBride's story.
27. McBride delivered a TEDx talk in April 2016, titled "Gender assigned to us at birth should not dictate who we are."
28. For her work and advocacy, former Governor Jack Markell awarded McBride the Order of the First State.

Legislative Focus

Sarah's legislative efforts have spanned various critical areas, reflecting her commitment to improving lives.

29. McBride has taught public policy at the University of Delaware.
30. She championed legislation expanding access to healthcare covered by Medicaid.
31. McBride has been instrumental in preventing child abuse through legislation.
32. She has promoted green technologies and sustainable practices.

Advocacy for Workers and Families

Sarah's work has significantly impacted workers and families, ensuring better protections and support.

33. McBride has championed legislation protecting workers from discrimination.
34. She has promoted mental health education in public schools.
35. Her congressional campaign prioritizes safeguarding reproductive rights.
36. McBride's campaign also focuses on raising the minimum wage.

Historic Milestones and Future Aspirations

Sarah McBride's journey is marked by historic milestones and a commitment to future advocacy.

37. McBride's election as the first openly transgender state senator in the United States is a historic milestone.
38. Her decision to come out as a transgender woman at a young age required immense bravery.
39. The LGBTQ+ community has been instrumental in supporting McBride throughout her career.
40. McBride remains committed to her core values of equality, justice, and community service, aspiring to become the first openly transgender member of Congress.

Sarah McBride: A True Trailblazer

Sarah McBride's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days in Wilmington, Delaware, to becoming the first openly transgender state senator in the U.S., she’s shown remarkable courage and dedication. Her work in passing landmark legislation, like the Healthy Delaware Families Act, has made a real difference in people's lives. McBride's advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare expansion, and worker protection highlights her commitment to equality and justice. Her memoir, Tomorrow Will Be Different, offers a deep dive into her personal and professional struggles and triumphs. As she aims for a congressional seat, McBride continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. Her story is a powerful reminder that authenticity and perseverance can lead to monumental change. Sarah McBride is not just a politician; she’s a beacon of hope and a symbol of progress.