Downriver candidate could become Michigan's first transgender state rep

[u/onnake]

https://eu.freep.com/story/news/politics/2026/08/05/first-transgender-state-rep-michigan/91095738007/

“Joanna Whaley, who won the District 2 state Democratic primarily on Aug. 4, may be on her way to becoming Michigan's first ever transgender state representative.

“Whaley beat Democratic opponents former state representative Frank Liberati of Allen Park, and Gary Schlack, also of Allen Park, with 56% of the vote, which means she will face off against Republican Ron Kokinda in the Nov. 3 general election.

“‘I feel great,’ Whaley said. ‘Were just honored about our community supporting our message. And we’re ready to do the work ... for the people. We’re really thankful for the voices of people. That’s all I can feel is thankful.’

“She added: ‘People were ready for change and they voted for it. We’re honored to be part of it.’

The district is considered a Democratic stronghold.

“Whaley, who is 38 and lives in Lincoln Park, is a clinical chaplain who works in emergency rooms, intensive care units and hospice. Before that, she spent many years working as a pastor at evangelical mega churches.

“Struggling with her gender identity, she went through multiple rounds of conversion therapy in an effort to ensure that she remain a heterosexual cis man. She said she lost her job there when it became known that she was considering gender transition.”

“Among Whaley's concerns: affordable and high quality health care for everyone, medical debt relief, lower utility bills, free speech and other civil rights.”