The 2025 Out100: Sarah McBride

As the first out transgender member of Congress, Sarah McBride has remained dedicated to protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ (and all) Americans. “Growing up as a closeted trans woman [in the U.S.], I faced a crisis of hope,” McBride says of what keeps her motivated today. “But my journey back to hope is our community’s shared history of progress.”

Of her many contributions in 2025, McBride says she’s most proud of helping to “lead a successful effort to reverse devastating federal cuts by the Trump administration to manufacturing support in Delaware, protecting Delaware jobs and local manufacturing.”

“I’m proudest of the real stories behind the wins,” she adds, “whether it’s securing health care benefits for senior Delawareans, reuniting families navigating a broken immigration system, or helping veterans access care they have earned.”

On the importance of LGBTQ+ leadership in this country, McBride is clear: “Visibility alone isn’t enough — we need representation that delivers. Queer and trans people belong in every room where decisions are made, not just to be seen but to lead.” @sarahemcbride