Vote 2026: Trans Women on the Ballot

Episode Description

Imara sits down with two trans women running for their respective State Houses of Representatives. And, in an interesting coincidence, both these women are spiritual leaders as well as political hopefuls.

Joanna Whaley is running to represent Michigan’s 2nd District on a platform of economic fairness. She is a former pastor, a survivor of conversion therapy, and currently works full-time as a hospital chaplain.

Jaelynn Scott is the Democratic nominee for Washington State’s District 37. She is a Democratic Socialist and the Executive Director of the Lavender Rights Project, a Black trans feminist organization.

This week’s Trans Joy features Ashley Shade, the President of the City Council of North Adams, Massachusetts.

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