Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Joanna Whaley, Michigan House of Representatives District 2

The road from evangelical megachurch clergy to trans progressive election candidate is an unlikely journey, but it does happen! Joanna Whaley (she/her) is a former pastor at a Michigan evangelical megachurch, but actively undergoing “conversion therapy” for 15 years, during most of her time serving there. Joanna transitioned in 2022 and was forced to leave her church, but has become an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and outspoken critic of Christian nationalism, a world she was immersed in for most of her early millenial adult life.

Joanna was motivated to run after lots of encouragement from local leaders and community members, due to the fact that her current state representative, Tullio Liberati, was one of eight Democrats to vote last year for a Republican measure that would ban trans girls from school sports. Though Tullio is retiring at the end of his term, his older brother Frank decided to run to replace him. It did not turn out well for the Liberati brothers though, as Joanna defeated Frank by almost 25 percentage points. The core of Joanna’s platform is to get utilities in check, pass, single payer healthcare in the state of Michigan, and protect civil rights and freedom for all people. If elected in November, she will become the first trans woman elected to the Michigan legislature, quite a stunning turnaround from the current representation in her district.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Ashanti Martinez, Maryland House of Delegates District 22

Ashanti Martinez (he/him) is a gay Afro-Latino millennial representative in Maryland’s House of Delegates. Active in politics from his early teenage years, Ashanti comes from a working-class family in Prince George’s County, a majority-Black county outside of Washington, DC. Ashanti attended Howard University, and is passionate about LGBTQ rights, universal healthcare, gun control, and the environment.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 59Andrew FSeptember 1, 2026millenial, latino, latinx, LGBTQ, LGBTQ Support, LGBTQ rights, lgbtq, politician, politics, Politics, #politics, election 2026Comment

COVER - Mr. Tell Williams - Disarming People Through Comedy

If you had told me ten years ago that one of my favorite ways that I would be getting my news is from a super hot half Puerto Rican gay man dressed as Jesus or the Devil I wouldn’t believe you, but Mr. Tell Williams’s hot takes on the political climate help me get through the day. A comedian with a heart of gold, Tell started his social media journey recanting stories from his teaching days and now educates the masses through his wholesome political and social commentary.

Some of my personal favorite videos of his are when he dresses as Jesus or the Devil, while they are cute and fun, I personally love his take on the characters and how they they might not be like what most Christians think they are, but actually a lot more like how I envision them. For example, maybe Jesus would be a fan of feeding kids school lunches and not killing lots of people, who knew?

Another wonderful thing about Tell is that he is a huge feminist and humanitarian. As a man who was raised by strong women he is often throwing his support for women and fighting for us to be treated well. In our current climate, it is so refreshing to see a guy standing up for women. And of course he doesn’t stop there. Tell also works with many LGBTQ+ organizations, mental heath (oh he is also a therapist!), the arts, and food banks. If you don’t already follow him, let our exclusive cover fashion editorial and interview, convince you to! And if you do, you are welcome, because there is nothing better than more Mr. Tell Williams.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Amanda Gonzalez, Colorado Secretary of State

Amanda Gonzalez (she/her), is running for Colorado Secretary of State this year. A bisexual millennial attorney, she is currently the Clerk and Recorder for Jefferson County, Colorado. Amanda is a member of the Colorado Hispanic Bar Association, Colorado Women's Bar Association, and Colorado LGBTQ+ Bar Association. She is running to protect every Coloradan’s vote from interference, expand voting rights, and keep Colorado’s election system secure.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - David Orkin, New York State Assembly District 38

David Orkin (he/him), a gay millennial immigrant workers’ rights attorney and union organizer, is running as a Democratic Socialist to unseat Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, a close political ally of former NYC mayor Eric Adams. David has dedicated his life to the immigrant rights, and labor solidarity movements, working in migrant shelters in Mexico, in the desert and detention centers of Arizona, with people fighting deportations, and with workers organizing in Queens. He is centering his campaign around affordable rent, healthcare and childcare, and abolishing ICE.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 58, zIssue 58.2Andrew FJune 17, 2026democratic socialism, democratic socialist, gay, LGBTQ, #immigrants, unionComment

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Janelle Kellman, Lieutenant Governor of California

After eight years, there is a wholesale changing of state government in California this year. Both the governor and lieutenant governor positions are open, and there is a large group of candidates for both offices. Today we are interviewing Janelle Kellman (she/her), a gay woman who is the former mayor of Sausalito. She is an environmental attorney and the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Center for Sea Rise Solutions. A passionate climate justice warrior, Janelle points out that the Lieutenant Governor sits on the State Lands Commission and the Coastal Commission. The lieutenant governor also sits on the University of California Board of Regents, the California State University Board of Trustees, and the Commission for Economic Development. Through these positions, Janelle plans to use the power of the office to to advance climate resilience, public education, housing, good jobs, and a more equitable economy.

Paisley Fields: Sexy, Funny, Messy

Queer-country singer-songwriter Paisley Fields recently released his new single “Hands Off The Hat,” a fun country tune based off of a real incident. The single comes right before the release of his new album “Are U Mad At Me,” an album he describes as a “journey.” Beyond his own music, Fields is a mentor to young music industry professionals through Grammy U and the Recording Academy. To learn more about Paisley Fields and his new music, read on.

Kid Sistr on New Music & Queer Identity

<p style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Three-piece queer band Kid Sistr knows all too well that the lessons you learn throughout your adolescence stay with you forever, aspects of girlhood bleed into adulthood. Their most recent release, “American Teenage Prophecy,” creates a world where love of all kinds exist without societal expectations. Playing charity concerts at Campchella for Amplify, their dedication to inspiring young girls continues. To learn more about Kid Sistr and their new music, read on.</p>

Reifier's Electronic Experimentation

Multidisciplinary producer, composer, vocalist, and engineer Reifier just released their debut EP titled “The Unfolding.” The project is an experimental electronic journey that explores self-discovery and transformation. Dedicated to supporting women and LGBTQ artists, Reifier also co-runs a supportive music studio called Forastero Sound and Music. To learn more about Reifier and their new music, read on.

Whiskey Flower's Unapologetic Honesty

Queer duo Whiskey Flower creates music that pulses with the beat of honesty, understanding, and resilience. They recently released their single “Stop Stereo,” the first taste of their upcoming EP “Double Yellow Lines,” a gritty, unflinching bark of laughter in the face of conformity that empowers listeners to embrace authenticity. Playing fundraisers for Santa Fe’s Girls Inc. organization, their dedication to inspiring authenticity continues. To learn more about Whiskey Flower and their upcoming EP, read on.

Nicolle Maroulis of Hit Like A Girl on Music and Meaning

Lead singer of the “indie/emo/sometimes hardcore” band Hit Like A Girl, Nicolle Maroulis, opens up about their music making process, the story behind their latest single, “Keepsake Theory,” and the band’s upcoming LP, “Burning at Both Ends.” Beyond music, Maroulis displays their passion for helping the transgender community through their organization No More Dysphoria Found. To learn more about Nicolle Maroulis and Hit Like A Girl’s upcoming project, read on.

Carlyn Cowen - Organizing All the Time

Carlyn Cowen (they/them) has been agitating for change their entire life. As someone who is queer, Jewish, and Filipinx, none of the aspects of Carlyn’s identity place them in the white supremacist heteronormative patriarchal privileged paradigm. Carlyn’s official career has been providing social services to marginalized communities in New York City, including the Black community, the LGBTQ community, and the Chinese-American community. Read on to learn more about the amazing work that Carlyn has accomplished!

Weakened Friends on New Music and Queer Representation

With their highly anticipated album Feels Like Hell dropping on October 10th, Weakened Friends smashes it out of the park with their latest singles. With lyrics about breaking free from what’s not working, their newest release “Tough Luck (Bleed Me Out)” encapsulates the albums theme of both internal and external reflection. Partnering with The Ally Coalition for their upcoming tour, Weakened Friends strives to make their shows a safe space for everyone. To learn more about Weakened Friends and their upcoming album, read on.

The Uncertain Future of Gay Marriage

Just ten short years ago, on January 16th, 2015, gay marriage was legalized in the United States. Just a few weeks ago, on July 24th, 2025, the Supreme Court was formally asked to overturn the landmark ruling of Obergefell v. Hodges, the law that makes same-sex marriage legal and nationally recognized.

Rachael Sage & Kristen Ford: Joy=Resistance

Coming together to perform on the “Joy=Resistance” tour are two queer musicians who aren’t afraid of speaking up. Singer-songwriters Rachel Sage and Kristen Ford see music as a universal language that creates community and connection, which is exactly what they hope to bring to each city on their tour. Sage’s latest single and upcoming album, “Canopy”, keeps inclusivity and acceptance at the forefront while Ford’s new single “Wild Heart” and album “Pinto” aim to fight back against oppression. Donating a portion of the proceeds from their tour to The Trevor Project, the two musicians fight even further to create safe spaces and provide solace for those in need. To learn more about Rachel Sage, Kristen Ford, and their Joy=Resistance tour, read on.

Where in the World is it Safe to be Transgender?

As the first year of the Trump administration’s second term goes on, it is clear that the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those a part of the transgender community, will continue to be the target of several discriminatory laws, policies, and ideologies. Certain states in the U.S. are becoming increasingly unsafe for transgender individuals to reside in because of their more conservative government officials and the introduction of prejudicial state legislation that allows for discrimination.

In light of the growing hostility U.S. policies have towards the trans community, here is a list of the 5 safest cities in the U.S. and 5 safest cities outside of the U.S. for transgender individuals to live.

Color Outside the Lines: Creative Queer Businesses to Support

With Pride Month in full force, there’s no better time to celebrate the vision and unapologetic creativity of LGBTQIA+ owned brands. These bold, boundary-breaking businesses aren't just serving looks and products—they’re serving purpose. From powerful messages of love and identity to meaningful support for vital causes, these brands are making waves and rewriting the rules. Jejune Magazine is here to cheer them on and highlight the trailblazers making the world more inclusive, one idea at a time.

Is Leaving America Worth It?

With the recent election results putting Trump into office once again, the fear of his second term bringing even worse consequences this time around is widely shared. Many Americans have been heavily considering leaving the country to try and counteract the effect his presidency will have on them.

Though, with every big decision comes its positives and negatives. Here are a few pros and cons to leaving America that you should consider before making your decision.

Regina Sayles - Helping Voices Be Heard

Regina Sayles is a queer biracial singer-songwriter who advocates for more representation within the music industry. Her latest single’s music video, One Big Lie, released on International Women’s Day and aims to create more visibility for women like her. Often donating to the Looking Out Foundation, she hopes to help other’s voices be heard. Beyond the music, Sayles is an educator and a mentor, working hard to uplift others and help them believe in themselves. With more new music along the way, we are surely in for a treat! Read on to learn more about Regina Sayles’ new music and what representation means to her.

COVER - XO Sasha Bhasin

Like Praveena from XO Kitty, Sasha Bhasin is a strong fierce woman who knows what she wants. From a young age, she knew she wanted to be an actress and wasn’t going to take a no from her parents or anyone else. She has come a long way from dragging her mom to casting calls to being a love interest in one of the top Netflix shows! Just like we hope to see more of Praveena in season three of XO Kitty, I have full confidence that we will be seeing a lot more of Sasha Bhasin on our screens as she tackles every role she gets her hands on. It is important to note that Sasha is also a singer, recently coming out with a new song, and a passionate advocate for the environment and pugs! Please read on to learn more about the charming Sasha Bhasin.