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LGBTQ+ candidates say they have been motivated to run by the backsliding on queer rights, but also by other local issues.

Candidates said they are aware of the risks of running for office at such a volatile political moment.

San Diego City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert doesn’t generally agree with political parties redrawing congressional maps to gain power.

But after President Trump persuaded Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to redraw his state’s maps in order to improve Republican chances of retaining control of Congress in 2026, Von Wilpert said she decided California’s only option was to fight back with new maps of its own , favoring Democrats.

There’s too much at stake for LGBTQ

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