Maggie Ellis Makes History as First Out LGBTQ+ Person Elected to Texas Statewide Office

In a historic moment for Texas politics, Maggie Ellis has been confirmed as the first openly LGBTQ+ person to be elected to a statewide office in the state. This groundbreaking achievement comes alongside another notable first for Ellis, who is also the first woman to ascend to the position of Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court.

Ellis secured her place in history by defeating Republican incumbent Jimmy Blacklock in the race for Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice. The election results also saw Democrats win four additional open seats on the Texas Supreme Court, leading to a female majority on the nine-member bench. This shift in representation highlights a significant change in the composition of the court, with three new justices-elect being Democratic candidates: Chari Kelly, Kristen Hawkins, and Gisela Triana.

Prior to her current role, Ellis had extensive experience in legal and educational fields. She served as an appellate justice and worked as both a public school teacher and an attorney. Her background adds a unique perspective to her new position, especially considering her personal story of overcoming adversity. Ellis experienced poverty and homelessness during her childhood, which she has used as inspiration throughout her career.

This election marks a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ representation in Texas, as well as for women in leadership roles within the state's judiciary. It underscores the growing influence of diverse voices in shaping the future of Texas governance.

What we know

• - ¹²³ Maggie Ellis is the first openly LGBTQ+ person elected statewide in Texas.
• - ¹ Maggie Ellis is the first woman to be elected as Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice.
• - ¹ Maggie Ellis defeated Republican incumbent Jimmy Blacklock in the race for Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice.
• - ¹ Democrats won four other open seats on the Texas Supreme Court, resulting in a female majority on the nine-member bench.
• - ¹²³ Ellis previously served as an appellate justice and worked as a public school teacher and attorney before her current role.
• - ² Three new justices-elect to the Texas Supreme Court are Democratic candidates: Chari Kelly, Kristen Hawkins, and Gisela Triana.
• - ²³ Ellis experienced poverty and homelessness during her childhood.