Three lesbian attorneys general fighting against Trumpism in court raise concerns about the threat to marriage equality.

The second day of the LGBTQ+ Victory Institutes International Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., featured a striking session: three of the nations leading attorneys general spoke about confronting a federal administration they say threatens democratic norms.

The breakfast plenary, titled Women + Power: Attorneys General Defending Equality and Justice, showcased Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Moderated by former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the discussion focused on civil rights fragility, the nations political direction, and the role of Democratic attorneys general in challenging Trump-era federal authority.

The three out lesbian state leaders warned that marriage equality, once considered firmly established constitutional law, faces unprecedented risks as federal actions increasingly threaten civil rights. They emphasized that the upcoming battles for LGBTQ+ equality could be more volatile than anything the movement has faced in decades.

Jean-Pierre highlighted the underrepresentation of LGBTQ+ women in public office, while noting that those who do hold power are central to defending elections, protecting civil rights, and shielding vulnerable communities from federal overreach.

Anne Lopez described how her office in Hawaii has transformed into a front line for democracy. She stressed that Democratic attorneys general, now numbering 24 with Virginias recent addition, have been strategically preparing and collaborating for the current legal climate well before the presidential inauguration. Lopez noted that Hawaiis civil rights challenges often involve healthcare, housing, and education, where federal interference can have significant consequences.

Kris Mayes, who narrowly won her 2022 election by 280 votes, discussed the high stakes of safeguarding democracy in swing states. She has filed over 30 lawsuits against the administration and emphasized that behind-the-scenes coordination among Democratic attorneys general has been key to their roughly 80% success rate in district court cases, which has restored millions and even billions in federal funding. Mayes expressed concern about potential federal interference in elections and threats to marriage rights.

Dana Nessel, who played a pivotal role in Michigans marriage equality case, spoke about the constant legal pressures her office faces, including lawsuits aimed at suppressing votes and threats to election officials. She stressed that standing firm against federal overreach is essential, saying, Appeasement does not work. The only thing a bully understands is fighting back.

On how their LGBTQ+ identities influence leadership, Lopez described her approach as rooted in empathy and respect. Mayes highlighted resilience as a key trait, while Nessel infused humor and political pride into her response, expressing support for drag culture as part of her broader message of inclusivity.

Closing the session, Mayes outlined three pillars crucial to sustaining democracy: the courts, public engagement, and courage. She urged immediate action, noting that waiting even two years could be too late.

Author: Gavin Porter