Obama Nominates Lesbian for U.S. Attorney Position in Seattle

by Michael Jones · 2009-05-17 18:31:00 UTC
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Jenny DurkanPresident Obama released the names of his first six nominees for U.S. Attorneys across the country, and one of them happens to be openly lesbian Seattle attorney Jenny Durkan.  Durkan, who was formerly legal counsel to Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire, will now see her nomination get put before the U.S. Senate, which must confirm her position.

Obama himself said that all six of his nominees for U.S. Attorney "have distinguished themselves as fair, tenacious and respected attorneys throughout their careers in both public and private service."  And Gov. Gregoire had this to say: "I am so pleased the Obama administration also recognizes Jenny's leadership and experience, and nominated her for this important position.  I hope the Senate will act quickly on the nomination to confirm her."

Congratulations to Durkan.  As this AP article mentions, it's not clear whether Durkan will be the first openly LGBT person named U.S. Attorney.

For LGBT folks, this is another high-level position within the Obama administration for an openly LGBT person.  Perhaps Obama will top this announcement by naming an openly LGBT person to the U.S. Supreme Court? A boy can dream...

Michael Jones is a Change.org Editor. He has worked in the field of human rights communications for a decade, most recently for Harvard Law School.
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