Mayor-elect Lightfoot (Image via official headshot)

Lori Lightfoot, who surprised many by coming in first place during the recent Chicago mayoral race, surprised no one by winning big in today's run-off — but how big? BIG.
Lightfoot is now the highest-ranking out LGBTQ mayor in American history, and is the only out black lesbian serving as a mayor in the country. She replaced outgoing (to say the least!) Mayor Rahm Emanuel, and defeats longtime, comparatively establishment politico Toni Preckwinkle.

Annise Parker, who as an out lesbian served as Houston's mayor, said in a statement released by the Victory Fund:

A Black lesbian taking power in the nation’s third-largest city is a historic moment for so many communities that are too often ignored in American politics. Chicago’s enormous influence on the national dialogue provides a platform for Lori to promote more inclusive solutions to the challenges facing our cities and nation — and to be a credible messenger as well. Lori will certainly remain focused on the issues facing Chicago. But as the highest-ranking LGBTQ person ever elected mayor of an American city — a title she takes from me — she is also now a key leader in the movement to build LGBTQ political power nationwide.

Big changes are coming to a city that needs them.

This campaign has been an incredible journey. We started out as underdogs, but our message of change resonated across the city. And today we have the chance to make history.

Watch this video about our journey and then make sure to get the polls and vote before 7! #TeamLightfoot pic.twitter.com/U769fZunzH

— Lori Lightfoot (@LightfootForChi) April 2, 2019