2020 House elections: on Civil Rights


Abigail Spanberger: Full civil rights protections to the LGBTQ community

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"I am proud to have the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign for my re-election," said Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA-7). "During my first term in Congress, we have taken historic steps towards ensuring equality for our LGBTQ friends, family, and neighbors. By far, one of my proudest days as a Member of Congress was when we passed the Equality Act. We have plenty more to accomplish to make our country a safer, fairer, and more just place for everyone, and I am thankful for the support and partnership of the Human Rights Campaign as we work together to keep fighting for the equality of all."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 VA-7 House race May 18, 2020

Bob Good: Transexuals threaten Christian values

Bob Good, a self-described "biblical conservative" is hoping to rally clergy members with meetings this week attacking a new state law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. "What happens when a male member of your congregation goes on vacation and returns four weeks later as a female?" the invitation said, adding, "What do your church bylaws state regarding a man dressed as a woman who attends a church function and expects to use the women's restroom."
Source: The N. Y. Times on 2020 VA-5 House race Aug 16, 2020

Byron Donalds: Racism not a threat to domestic security; radical groups are

Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

A: Racism is not a threat to domestic security. The threat to domestic security is radical groups that are using racial issues to further their political agenda.

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 FL-19 House race Nov 3, 2020

Chris Pappas: Supported NO BAN act, opposing religious travel restrictions

A Pappas spokesperson said, "The National Origin-Based Anti-discrimination for Non-immigrants (NO BAN) Act was introduced in direct response to Trump's discriminatory policy of targeting individuals based solely on their religion and ethnicity. While this legislation works to uphold the American value of religious liberty, key provisions make clear that the President would retain authority to restrict individuals from entering the country if they pose a risk to national security or public health,"
Source: WMUR TV-9 on 2020 NH-1 House race Mar 11, 2020

Cindy Axne: Protect and empower all members of the LGBTQ community

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"I am so grateful for the continued support of the Human Rights Campaign," said Rep. Cindy Axne (IA-3). "It is increasingly important to use our voices to protect and empower all members of the LGBTQ community. HRC's advocacy is moving us toward a more equal and inclusive society and I am proud to have them in my corner."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 IA-3 House race May 18, 2020

Conor Lamb: Endorsed by Human Rights Campaign for LGBTQ+ equality

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the US House and establish one in the US Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

The Human Rights Campaign announced the endorsement of 40 House and 5 Senate candidates crucial to maintaining or establishing pro-equality majorities in Congress.

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 PA-17 House race May 18, 2020

Greg Pence: Says he doesn't manage his mall that sells racist objects

Greg Pence is coming under criticism for allowing the sale of objects with racist depictions of African Americans at an antiques mall he co-owns. Sprinkled throughout the mall are dozens of objects that trade in Jim Crow-era caricatures, like a coin bank featuring an exaggerated, straw-hatted Black figure biting down on a watermelon or "Mammy" biscuit jars depicting smiling Black enslaved women. Through a spokesperson, Pence said he "is not engaged in the active management" of the mall.
Source: Associated Press on 2020 IN-6 House race Jul 31, 2020

Jerry Carl: Gospel is clear that racism has no place in our society

Q: Briefly describe your spiritual beliefs and values?

A: I am a born again Christian, and was saved at an early age. My faith is the central thread in my life, and it is what guides my thoughts, actions, and decisions everyday.

Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

A: The Gospel is clear that racism has no place in our hearts and our society, and we as Americans need to come together as one people.

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 AL-1 House race Nov 3, 2020

Kwanza Hall: Sexual orientation should not influence rights

I believe that orientation should not influence access or rights. Even in the metro-Atlanta region, persons along the sexuality spectrum have been forced to live in denial or only partially acknowledging who they are. As a member of Congress, I will continue the work for equality in public policy to which I was committed when I served on the Atlanta City Council.
Source: 2020 House GA-5 Campaign website KwanzaHall.com Feb 11, 2021

Marjorie Taylor Greene: Don't ban crosses or 10 Commandments from government

The Establishment Clause separates church from state but not religion from politics or private life. It was never meant to ban crosses or the 10 commandments from government, ban prayer from school or sports, or tell businesses what to do. We have freedom of religion and the separation of church and state means the federal government has no say in religious affairs.
Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 GA-14 House race Nov 3, 2020

Martha Roby: Organized 50th anniversary of Selma Pettus Bridge march

In the house, Sewell hit it off with her classmate from Alabama, Republican Martha Roby. Sewell Gained national prominence and an emotional personal moment during the March 2015 50th anniversary commemoration in Selma of the march to Montgomery, which she and Roby help to organize. The parade across the Edmund Pettus Bridge with led by the Obamas and their two teenage daughters. In an interview with Roll Call, Sewell said that her life story disproves the title of Thomas Wolfe's 1940 novel "You Can't Go Home Again." She embraced her "season of service," but said that she doesn't expect further career moves in politics. "This is it for me."
Source: Almanac of American Politics on 2020 AL-2 House race Oct 5, 2015

Matt Rosendale: Media portrays racial relations as worse than they are

Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

A: No. The media likes to portray racial relations in this country to be worse than they really are. I believe our country and its people are far better than the media portrays.

Source: iVoterGuide on 2020 House MT-0 race Oct 9, 2020

Melanie Stansbury: End healthcare, housing, employment discrimination

I will fight to protect reproductive health care, ensure equal pay for equal work, address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, and support initiatives that uplift women and girls. I will fight to protect LGBTQIA+ rights, reverse the discriminatory policies of the previous administration, and end discrimination in employment, healthcare, housing, and all spheres. I will fight to ensure our laws are inclusive of all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Source: 2020-21 NM-1 House campaign website MelanieForNM.com May 11, 2021

Nancy Mace: Will support John Lewis's legacy

[On her predecessor]: "Nobody could possibly fill the shoes of Congressman Lewis," Williams said. "His leadership and fighting spirit is needed now more than ever in this country. I believe it is imperative that we choose someone with a long track record of fearlessly standing up for what is right and someone who will take on the endless attacks on our rights that we've grown accustomed to seeing from the Republican Party."
Source: Alex Rogers on CNN on 2020 SC-1 House race Jul 20, 2020

Nikema Williams: No voter suppression, count every vote

Senator Williams' commitment to Georgians is reflected in her arduous fight for free and fair elections. From speaking out against voter suppression, to ensuring that every individual's vote is counted, Senator Williams will not stop until everyone's voices are heard. In November of 2018 Senator Williams was arrested at the State Capitol as she stood by her constituents to elevate their demands that every vote be counted following the midterm elections.
Source: 2020 GA-5 House campaign website NikemaForSenate.com Aug 25, 2020

Nikema Williams: Right to vote should not be tied to zip code or bank account

Congresswoman Williams' first priority is to push for the passage of H.R. 1, to advance access to the ballot box. Every year, we witness the suppression tactics used to strip people who look like Congresswoman Williams of their right to participate in our democracy. It is a shame that in 2021 we are still talking about voting rights. Now is the time to put an end to it. Your access to the ballot box should not be determined by your Zip code or bank account.
Source: 2020 House GA-5 Campaign website NikemaWilliams.house.gov Feb 12, 2021

Nikema Williams: I'm in Congress because Rep Lewis broke barriers

To say I'm living my ancestors' wildest dreams is an understatement. I would not be here today if my friend, Congressman Lewis, had not broken barriers for people who look like me. I am especially thankful for him today, on what would have been his 81st birthday.
Source: Twitter posting on 2020 GA-5 House race Feb 21, 2021

Nina Turner: Justice and workplace protections for LGBTQIA+ and disabled

Strengthen and expand unions. Equal pay for equal work. Expand workplace protections for the LGBTQIA+ community by passing the Equality Act. Make credit and banking services available to all communities. Increased protections and employment opportunities for our disabled community.
Source: 2020-21 OH-11 House campaign website NinaTurner.com Dec 16, 2020

Steven Horsford: Endorsed by Human Rights Campaign for LGBTQ+ Equality

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

The Human Rights Campaign announced the endorsement of 40 House and five Senate candidates crucial to maintaining or establishing pro-equality majorities in the U.S. Congress. [HRC cites that Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) was previously endorsed].

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 NV-4 House race May 18, 2020

Susan Wild: Fight for expanded rights for LGBTQ+ communities

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"Whenever we discuss the issues that matter most to Americans--like access to health care, affordability of housing, or workplace protections--we must consider how our LGBTQ+ community is disproportionately at risk," said Rep. Susan Wild (PA-7). "At every turn, I've been proud to advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals both overseas through my work on human rights with the Foreign Affairs Committee as well as here at home through my work on mental health. I was so proud that in my first term, the House of Representatives was finally able to pass the Equality Act and take huge steps to enshrine equality for the LGBTQ+ community in law. I am honored to have the support of the Human Rights Campaign and look forward to continuing our work together in the years to come."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 PA-7 House race May 18, 2020

Teresa Leger Fernandez: Celebrate multiculturalism, speak out against discrimination

Here in New Mexico -- we celebrate our multiculturalism. In Congress, I will be a voice for compassion, understanding, and unity. I will continue to be outspoken against racism, sexism, homophobia, antisemitism, and xenophobia. We must always stand up for all of our communities, and against those who are complicit in fostering hate, division, and discrimination. We must defeat those that would demonize the "other" to achieve power.
Source: 2020 House NM-3 Campaign website TeresaForAll.com Feb 13, 2021

Teresa Leger Fernandez: Advocates equal pay for equal work

It is unacceptable that women make less than their male counterparts doing comparable work. In New Mexico women make 85 cents for every dollar paid to men. Hispanic women make even less, taking in 56 cents for every dollar paid to white men. I am an advocate for equal pay for equal work.
Source: 2020 House NM-3 Campaign website TeresaForAll.com Feb 13, 2021

Terri Sewell: Organized 50th anniversary of Selma Pettus Bridge march

In the house, Sewell hit it off with her classmate from Alabama, Republican Martha Roby. Sewell Gained national prominence and an emotional personal moment during the March 2015 50th anniversary commemoration in Selma of the march to Montgomery, which she and Roby help to organize. The parade across the Edmund Pettus Bridge with led by the Obamas and their two teenage daughters. In an interview with Roll Call, Sewell said that her life story disproves the title of Thomas Wolfe's 1940 novel "You Can't Go Home Again." She embraced her "season of service," but said that she doesn't expect further career moves in politics. "This is it for me."
Source: Almanac of American Politics on 2020 AL-7 House race Oct 5, 2015

Tracey Mann: Separation doesn't mean taking God out of our schools

The separation of church and state was designed and put into place by Founding Fathers so that the state or federal government would not impact or impede upon our religious liberty. They were trying to prevent a government run system like the Church of England. They did not intend for that separation to mean the taking of references to God out of our schools and greater society.
Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 KS-1 House race Nov 3, 2020

Yvette Herrell: Condemns racism, but widely blown out of proportion

Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

A: I condemn racism completely however I believe this has now become widely blown out of proportion and a name calling ploy to promote disunity by my opposition.

Source: iVoterGuide on 2020 House NM-2 race Oct 9, 2020

Yvette Herrell: Must follow court ruling, but open to amending Constitution

Q: Governments should not discriminate against individuals, organizations or small businesses because of their belief that marriage is only a union of one man and one woman.

A: I am supportive of protecting businesses and people in their beliefs, but I think that that supreme court has ruled on this. Is the question suggesting that we ignore what the court has held? I would not support ignoring the court. I would support asking the people if they want to change the constitution.

Source: iVoterGuide on 2020 House NM-2 race Oct 9, 2020

Yvette Herrell: Systemic racism in law enforcement a false narrative

While racism certainly exists in our society, we have made much progress. However, there are government policies and programs that contribute to racism We should continue to strive for a colorblind society and fight against racial prejudice and discrimination in all forms. We should also fight against those who would seek to turn us against one another and perpetuate the false narrative of systemic racism within law enforcement, which is a tremendous threat to domestic security.
Source: iVoterGuide on 2020 House NM-2 race Oct 9, 2020

Dean Phillips: Supports Equality Act and extraordinary LGBTQ community

Rep. Phillips announced that he is an original co-sponsor of the Equality Act, a bill aimed at ending discrimination against LGBTQ Americans in public accommodations, education, federal financial assistance, employment, housing, credit and federal jury service.

"It's time to end the era of uncertainty and discrimination against our LGBTQ friends, neighbors and family members," said Phillips. "Our nation was built on the promise of equality and opportunity, and the Equality Act extends that promise to our extraordinary LGBTQ community. I'm proud to help introduce this long overdue legislation in the House today and will continue working hard to make sure the Equality Act is signed into law."

Amending existing civil rights law provides clarity and consistency for individuals who experience discrimination as well as for businesses and organizations trying to comply with the law. More than 160 corporations have endorsed the legislation.

Source: 2020 MN-3 House campaign website phillips.house.gov Mar 13, 2019

Chase Oliver: Equal rights regardless of color; even black transgender

He wants to work on criminal justice reform, push for accountability for police through the Ending Qualified Immunity Act, end cash bail, improve healthcare, add LGBTQ people to the Civil Rights Act and end the country's war on drugs and immigrants. "I'm absolutely looking to support any kind of legislation that will help our LGBTQ brothers and sisters live a more free and equal life in our country," Oliver said.

In the Podcast Q interview Oliver, a former Obama Democrat, also discusses becoming a Libertarian, protecting black transgender people, campaigning with masks and hand sanitizer, combatting HIV and breaking through to voters in the heavily Democratic district. "At the end of the day, [Libertarians] believe in criminal justice reform. We believe in limited government that is answerable to the people. And we believe that everyone regardless of color, creed sexual orientation, deserves equal inherent rights," Oliver said.

Source: The Q Substack for 2020 House race GA-5 Sep 21, 2020

Abby Finkenauer: Part of movement for equality & justice for LGBTQ Americans

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"Casting my vote for the Equality Act last year was one of the most moving moments of my first term in Congress," said Rep. Abby Finkenauer (IA-1). "I'm honored to have the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign and to be part of the movement for equality and justice for all Americans."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 IA-1 House race May 18, 2020

Ben McAdams: Ensure that all LGBTQ families are treated equally

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"Throughout my career in public service--whether during my time in the Utah legislature, as Mayor of Salt Lake County, or now as a member of Congress--I've worked to build bridges in the community to ensure that all families are treated equally under the law," said Rep. Ben McAdams (UT-4). "I'm honored to receive HRC's endorsement and look forward to more progress on these important issues."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 UT-4 House race May 18, 2020

Elaine Luria: Full civil rights protections to the LGBTQ community

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"As a co-sponsor of the Equality Act, I've worked to bring full civil rights protections to the LGBTQ community and am honored to have earned the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign," said Rep. Elaine Luria (VA-2). "I will always be an ally to the LGBTQ community."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 VA-2 House race May 18, 2020

Andy Kim: LGBTQ community had their freedom denied for far too long

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"Equality means everyone has access to the core American freedoms, including those in the LGBTQ community who have had their freedom denied for far too long. I was proud to vote for the Equality Act last year, and I'm proud to be endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign today." said Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-3)

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 NJ-3 House race May 18, 2020

Tom O`Halleran: Equality Act protects LGBTQ Arizonans

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"I believe that no matter who you love or how you identify, you deserve to feel safe, accepted, and able to participate in every aspect of your community" said Rep. Tom O'Halleran (AZ-1). " However, I know that is not the reality for far too many LGBTQ Arizonans. That's why I voted to pass the Equality Act, historic legislation that seeks to ensure LGBTQ Americans finally have the civil rights protections they deserve. I am proud to receive the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign, and will continue to fight for the equitable treatment of all Americans."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 AZ-1 House race May 18, 2020

Xochitl Torres Small: No one discriminated against because of who they love

[Human Rights Campaign endorsement press release]: HRC and these champions for equality must work together to ensure we maintain a pro-equality majority in the U.S. House and establish one in the U.S. Senate. HRC will work to mobilize 57 million Equality Voters nationwide to turn out this November and ensure these endorsed candidates win.

"It's been almost a year since the House passed the Equality Act, but the Senate has refused to even vote on it." said Rep. Xochitl Torres Small (NM-2). "As we work together to fight COVID-19 and its economic impact, LGBTQ people should not have to face discrimination in health care, housing, employment, and beyond. Now, just as always, no one should be discriminated against because of who they love. I am honored to have the Human Rights Campaign's endorsement and remain committed to working with them to protect the rights of all."

Source: Human Rights Campaign endorsements for 2020 NM-2 House race May 18, 2020

  • The above quotations are from News coverage of 2020 House of Representatives elections.
  • Click here for definitions & background information on Civil Rights.
  • Click here for other issues (main summary page).
  • Click here for more quotes by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Civil Rights.
  • Click here for more quotes by Ayanna Pressley on Civil Rights.
2016 Presidential contenders on Civil Rights:
  Republicans:
Gov.Jeb Bush(FL)
Dr.Ben Carson(MD)
Gov.Chris Christie(NJ)
Sen.Ted Cruz(TX)
Carly Fiorina(CA)
Gov.Jim Gilmore(VA)
Sen.Lindsey Graham(SC)
Gov.Mike Huckabee(AR)
Gov.Bobby Jindal(LA)
Gov.John Kasich(OH)
Gov.Sarah Palin(AK)
Gov.George Pataki(NY)
Sen.Rand Paul(KY)
Gov.Rick Perry(TX)
Sen.Rob Portman(OH)
Sen.Marco Rubio(FL)
Sen.Rick Santorum(PA)
Donald Trump(NY)
Gov.Scott Walker(WI)
Democrats:
Gov.Lincoln Chafee(RI)
Secy.Hillary Clinton(NY)
V.P.Joe Biden(DE)
Gov.Martin O`Malley(MD)
Sen.Bernie Sanders(VT)
Sen.Elizabeth Warren(MA)
Sen.Jim Webb(VA)

2016 Third Party Candidates:
Gov.Gary Johnson(L-NM)
Roseanne Barr(PF-HI)
Robert Steele(L-NY)
Dr.Jill Stein(G,MA)
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Page last updated: Mar 09, 2024