Lexington Candidate Makes History with Primary Election Result

Lexington’s Emma Curtis Breaks New Ground in the Kentucky Primary Election

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Emma Curtis, a trailblazing transgender candidate competing in Lexington’s political stage, made history in the Kentucky primary election of 2024. Curtis marked her name as a significant element of the political discussion, when the primary election saw her finish in the second place for the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council District 4.

Curtis Versus Incumbent Brenda Monarrez

Curtis is on the heels of incumbent Brenda Monarrez, the first person of Latin-American descent to serve on the council. Considering it is a nonpartisan race, the primary’s two top finishers will compete again in the November election for a spot on the 15-seat council.

Historic Opportunity for Transgender Representation

But the real milestone comes with her success as the first transgender candidate to secure a spot in a primary and have a chance to appear on a general election ballot. “We proved that we are in it to win it,” stated Curtis, who has roots in the district she hopes to represent.

Growing up, Curtis was aware of the absence of individuals like her in local politics, a void she is taking decisive steps to fill. “I hope that this primary result can prove to the kids today who are feeling the same way that I felt when I was a kid that they do belong and that their voice does matter, and if they have ideas, they should bring them to the table because this is their government, too,” she said.

Focusing on the Issues that Matter

As for the issues she is dedicated to tackling, Curtis maintains these are universal and not tethered to gender bias. Amid numerous conversations with constituents while canvassing, the primary concern of voters is what she can contribute as an elected public servant and less about her gender identity.

Challenges Stereotypes and Advocates for Inclusive Legislation

Curtis’s success in the primary election challenges the longstanding narrative of Kentucky as a region not wholly accepting of all types of people. As a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, her election run isn’t her only political role. Curtis has aggressively contested several bills targeting the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the wide-reaching anti-trans bill, Senate Bill 150, in 2023. The bill, if passed, would have significantly influenced transgender youth, the discourse of sexuality in schools, and access to gender transition services by minors.

A Second Public Office for a Transgender Kentucky Official

If Curtis is successful in the November elections, she will join Rebecca Blankenship, who in 2022 became the first transgender official in Kentucky, winning a seat on the Berea school board.