He’s bringing change to Texas!

Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, a 26-year-old former math teacher and community advocate, has made history in a landmark San Antonio election. He defeated incumbent councilmember — and his former supervisor — Jada Andrews-Sullivan to represent District 2 on the San Antonio City Council. McKee-Rodriguez secured a decisive 63% of the vote to Andrews-Sullivan’s 37%, becoming the first openly gay Black man ever elected to public office in the state of Texas (source: KENS 5 News). Several national outlets also noted the historic nature of his win, underscoring its significance in a state where LGBTQ representation in government has been limited (source: The New York Times).

After the victory, McKee-Rodriguez expressed heartfelt gratitude on social media, thanking his husband, family, campaign team, and supporters. He wrote, “We did it! Thank you to my wonderful and supportive husband and family, the amazing team that had my back every step of the way, every friend who supported me, and every voter who placed their trust in me. Thank you.” His message captured both the emotion of the moment and the community-driven spirit behind his campaign.

His election was supported by several influential advocacy groups, including the LGBTQ Victory Fund, which champions queer candidates nationwide (source: LGBTQ Victory Fund statement), as well as the Texas Freedom Network’s political action committee. In a statement, the TFN PAC emphasized that McKee-Rodriguez’s victory — alongside other progressive wins in the city — reflects a shifting political landscape. They highlighted that candidates like McKee-Rodriguez “represent a new generation of leaders” committed to tackling urgent issues such as climate resilience, police accountability, affordable housing, and equitable city planning (source: Texas Freedom Network).

Before entering politics, McKee-Rodriguez taught math at a local high school, an experience he has often said shaped his passion for community service. He has stated that one of his first priorities on the council will be advocating for a more equitable district budget, ensuring that historically under-resourced neighborhoods receive the attention and investment they deserve (source: San Antonio Express-News).

Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged that some doubted whether voters in District 2 — or Texas at large — would embrace a candidate like him. “A lot of people said that District 2 wouldn’t be ready for a candidate like me. Would District 2 be ready for a young gay candidate? Is Texas ready for a gay Black man to be elected anywhere and to any position?” he said. “What we proved — what the community proved — is that everyone deserves representation. If you have the right motives, the right passions, and if you’re a good listener, people will trust that. I hope this opens doors for a lot of people.”

His win has already been heralded by local leaders, civil rights advocates, and LGBTQ organizations as a milestone for both San Antonio and the state of Texas. It represents not only a shift in political dynamics but also a powerful reminder of the growing demand for diverse leadership that reflects the communities it serves.

Congratulations to Jalen McKee-Rodriguez — a trailblazer whose impact is only just beginning!