After record election year, some LGBTQ lawmakers face a new challenge: GOP majorities

https://www.npr.org/2022/12/03/ [login to see] /transgender-legislation-lgbtq-candidates-montana-zooey-zephyr
Zooey Zephyr is familiar with the ornate halls of the Montana state Capitol. She was here during the 2021 legislative session, testifying in opposition to bills targeted at trans-Montanans, like a ban on trans women and girls from participating in women's sports.

"The image of 'quote' trans women ruining the integrity of women's sports paints a false picture of life as a trans woman," she said in the House Judiciary Committee. "It incorrectly claims that we have a competitive advantage. And it misses why trans people transition in the first place – which is to lead a happier life," Zephyr added.

Then, this year, 34-year-old Zephyr became the first openly trans woman elected to the Montana legislature. Now, Rep.-elect Zephyr from Missoula, along with a record-number winning LGBTQ state legislative candidates across the country, will file into state capitols in January when many of their colleagues will likely propose anti-LGBTQ bills again.