I have consistently stood with the LGBTQIA+ community. Back in 2013, when same-sex marriages were still banned in Pennsylvania, I was the first and only elected official in western Pennsylvania to solemnize same-sex weddings. This was one of my proudest moments as mayor. I officiated more than two dozen before the ban was finally overturned. I believe everyone deserves equal protection under the law, and with extreme Republicans trying to pass legislation that discriminates against LGBTQIA+ Americans and targets transgender kids to score cheap political points, we need to fight back. 

In the Senate, I will vote to finally pass the Equality Act, which would ensure that civil rights laws — like protections against discrimination in employment and housing — apply to sexual orientation and gender identity. I will also support efforts to end the hateful practice of so-called “conversion therapy,” and fight to strengthen anti-harrassment policies on school and college campuses.

John on the Issues

1. Preparing the Next Generation
2. Keeping Our Promise to Veterans
3. Investing in Rural Communities
4. Respecting Our Seniors
5. Safeguarding Our Democracy
6. Delivering Criminal Justice Reform
7. Building a Humane, Safe, and Secure Immigration System
8. Protecting Women’s Reproductive Freedom
9. Guaranteeing Health Care
10. Legalizing Cannabis
11. Securing LGBTQIA+ Rights
12. Taking on Crime
13. Fighting Inflation + Lowering Costs
14. Promoting American Energy + Building a Clean Energy Future
15. Supporting Workers + the Union Way of Life
16. Maintaining Smart Global Leadership