Maura Healey Becomes First Lesbian Governor in U.S. History

Democratic candidate Maura Healey has been elected the first out lesbian governor in the U.S. as well as the first woman to lead Massachusetts.

In 2014, Healey previously made history when she became the first LGBTQ+ person elected to be a state's attorney general.

The Associated Press called the race shortly after polls closed in Massachusetts.

LGBTQ+ rights groups celebrated the historic moment, saying that Healey had shattered the lavender ceiling in Massachusetts.

"In the face of so much hate and intolerance sweeping our nation, her win is a sign - especially to LGBTQ kids in desperate need of hope -- that LGBTQ people have a place in American society and can become respected public leaders," said LGBTQ Victory Fund President and CEO Mayor Annise Parker. "It is an uphill battle for LGBTQ candidates and women candidates to win high-level elected office, but Massachusetts voters know Maura is a fighter and today helped her make U.S. political history.

"Maura Healey's victory marks a milestone in women's representation," said Lisa Turner, the executive director of LPAC, an organization that supports LGBTQ+ women candidates. "Not only is Healey the first women elected as Governor of Massachusetts, but she is the first open lesbian ever elected to lead a U.S. state. As governor, she will be an important role model for millions of LGBTQ women across the country."

Human Rights Campaign Interim President Joni Madison released the following statement: "Tonight, Maura Healey made history, becoming the first out lesbian governor this nation has ever elected. Massachusetts embraced a platform of equality and inclusion by electing a pro-equality champion. With her in the statehouse, LGBTQ+ youth across Massachusetts and the United States will get to see that they are represented at the highest levels of government, and that they can achieve anything they set their minds on. We celebrate Maura Healey's historic win and look forward to working with her to continue to fight for a Massachusetts that is inclusive and welcoming to all."

Tina Kotek of Oregon could join Healey in making history as an out lesbian governor. Results for that race are expected much later.