Overview
- Former President Joe Biden will receive the Chris Abele Impact Award and speak Friday at the 41st International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C.
- The institute credits his administration with appointing a record number of LGBTQ+ officials, restoring transgender military service, and reinstating or expanding federal protections.
- More than 700 elected officials, advocates, and human-rights leaders are expected, including Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, Mary Trump, and Stuart Milk.
- Victory Institute President Evan Low says demand for candidate training is two to three times typical levels, including a trans-only program that drew nearly 65 applicants for 15 slots.
- At least 80 out LGBTQ+ candidates have already filed for federal office in 2026, which institute officials say they expect to climb.