Openly gay attorney Sean Patrick Maloney has advanced to the November general election in New York’s 18th Congressional District after winning his Democratic primary tonight.

Sean Patrick Maloney

He’ll face Congresswoman Nan Hayworth, a freshman Republican who won the 19th Congressional District seat in 2010 with the backing of the Tea Party.

Maloney was the top vote-getter in a five-way primary.

The former Clinton administration staffer could help maintain or even grow the number of openly LGBT members of the U.S. House of Representatives, should he win the seat this November — Maloney would be the first openly gay member of New York’s congressional delegation.

“Sean has proven he knows how to get things done in Washington. He’s deeply experienced and absolutely committed to finding ways to put New Yorkers and all Americans back to work,” said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Victory Fund, which endorsed Maloney.

“As an openly gay dad, he’ll also be an authentic voice for LGBT families across the country. We’re extremely pleased about tonight’s big win,” said Wolfe.

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Tags: LGBT Politicians, New York, Sean Patrick Maloney

Filed under: New York