Christopher Wiggins Honored with GLAAD Media Award for Profile on Sarah McBride

Christopher Wiggins, the politics and news editor for The Advocate, has been awarded the 2026 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Online or Print Journalism Article. This accolade recognizes his profile of Delaware Congresswoman Sarah McBride, who is noted as the first out transgender member of Congress. The GLAAD Media Awards, which celebrate excellence in LGBTQ+ media representation, were announced during a gala event in Los Angeles, featuring prominent figures from the LGBTQ+ community, including singer Demi Lovato and actor Jonathan Bennett.

The Advocate

Wiggins's award-winning article, titled “As the first out trans person in Congress, Sarah McBride is ready to fight for us,” chronicles McBride's journey from the Delaware state Senate to her current role in Congress. The piece highlights her legislative ambitions and personal life, aiming to present McBride as a multifaceted individual beyond her identity as a transgender person. Wiggins emphasized the importance of showcasing McBride's humanity, stating, “What I hoped readers would see is that, while her being trans is historically significant, it’s also one of the least interesting things about her.”

The Advocate

In response to Wiggins's work, McBride praised his journalistic skills, describing him as a “world-class journalist” who effectively captured the essence of her early months in Congress. She noted that Wiggins's writing reflects the values guiding her work for Delawareans, highlighting both his talent and the kindness he brings to his storytelling.

The Advocate

The Advocate has a history of recognition at the GLAAD Media Awards, having won accolades for overall coverage in previous years, including 2025, 2023, 2022, and 2020. In addition to Wiggins's award, the publication was nominated for Outstanding Overall Coverage, although this award ultimately went to People magazine. Other notable winners at the 2026 awards included HBO’s show Heated Rivalry and Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko.

The Advocate

While the GLAAD Media Awards celebrate achievements in LGBTQ+ representation, some critics argue that the awards can overlook smaller, independent media outlets that also contribute significantly to LGBTQ+ narratives. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities within the media landscape regarding representation and recognition.

The Advocate

As Wiggins continues his work at The Advocate, the recognition from GLAAD may further amplify discussions around LGBTQ+ representation in politics and media. The impact of McBride's role in Congress, alongside Wiggins's journalism, is expected to influence future narratives surrounding LGBTQ+ issues in the United States.

The Advocate