Story perspectives

Record Black Gay Congressional Candidates Possible After 2027 Redistricting

6/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Activists say a record number of Black gay men could serve in Congress after the 2027 elections.
Elijah Manley, 27, is the best-funded challenger to Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) in FL-20.
The Supreme Court’s April decision weakening the 1965 Voting Rights Act prompted Texas, Tennessee and Louisiana to redraw Black districts.
Scholars Marcus Lee and Marlon M. Bailey say officials must be accountable for policies affecting Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

1 of 1

Story summary

Activists say a record number of Black gay men could serve in Congress after the 2027 elections.
Elijah Manley, 27, is the best-funded challenger to Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) in FL-20.
The Supreme Court’s April decision weakening the 1965 Voting Rights Act prompted Texas, Tennessee and Louisiana to redraw Black districts.
Scholars Marcus Lee and Marlon M. Bailey say officials must be accountable for policies affecting Black and LGBTQ+ communities.