rights
Queer candidates, allies win Md. primary races
By Emma LaPointe at Washington Blade
· June 24, 2026
· 6 min read
Several LGBTQ candidates secured spots on Maryland's November ballot following Tuesday's primary elections, though a handful of history-making campaigns fell short. Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, who is running for re-election in the 6th Congressional District, won in the Democratic primary wi
Key takeaway Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, who is running for re-election in the 6th Congressional District, won in the Democratic primary with 43.
Why this matters
The outcome of Maryland's primary elections has significant implications for LGBTQ representation in the state. Congresswoman April McClain Delaney's win in the 6th Congressional District, with the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign, suggests that her support for LGBTQ rights has resonated with voters. The election of Adrian Boafo, a former state delegate, to run for the 5th Congressional District seat, also indicates a potential continuation of the strong advocacy for LGBTQ rights that retiring U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer has provided. Although some history-making campaigns, such as Josie Caballero's bid to become the first trans woman elected to office in Maryland, fell short, the overall results demonstrate a growing presence of LGBTQ candidates and allies in Maryland politics. As the general election approaches, it will be crucial to watch how these candidates fare and whether they can maintain or increase their support for LGBTQ rights.
About this story
Original reporting by Washington Blade . LGBTQ News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: rights ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: Washington Blade ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Several LGBTQ candidates secured spots on Maryland's November ballot following Tuesday's primary elections, though a handful of history-making campaigns fell short. Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, who is running for re-election in the 6th Congressional District, won in the Democratic primary wi
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by Washington Blade and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Emma LaPointe at Washington Blade. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .