Army combat veteran advances in bid to become Maryland’s first transgender legislator

Alleria Stanley, a retired U.S. Army combat veteran and transgender rights advocate, has advanced to the general election for the Maryland House of Delegates, moving one step closer to what LGBTQ+ advocates say would be a first for the state.Stanley, a Democrat running in Maryland’s Legislative District 4, finished third in a four-way primary for one of the district’s three House seats, according to unofficial results from the Maryland State Board of Elections. In Maryland’s multi-member delegate districts, the top three candidates from each major party advance to the general election.Andrew Duck led the Democratic field with 6,732 votes, or 28.43 percent, followed by Jerry Donald with 6,477 votes, or 27.35 percent, according to the Maryland State Board of Elections. Stanley received 5,543 votes, or 23.41 percent, defeating Paul Gilligan, who finished fourth with 4,930 votes, or 20.82 percent.Related: Transgender Army vet running for state delegate in red Maryland district is all about showing upThe LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, which endorsed Stanley, says she would become the first out transgender person elected to the Maryland state legislature if she wins in November.“This primary victory is not about me; it is about the community we are building together,” Stanley said in a statement. “Voters are asking for leadership that listens, acts, and holds systems accountable. Whether it is keeping our communities affordable or ensuring that corporations play by the rules when it comes to our environment, I am ready to carry those priorities to Annapolis.”Stanley will face three Republicans in November: incumbent Del. Jesse T. Pippy, who led the GOP primary with 8,133 votes; incumbent Del. April Fleming Miller, who received 7,317 votes; and Jason E. Keckler, who received 7,231 votes.District 4, which covers much of Frederick County, has long been difficult terrain for Democrats. Republicans currently hold all three House seats, and when Stanley launched her campaig