JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
A Democratic queer rights advocate is officially in the race to represent the 48th District in the Missouri House of Representatives.
Joseph "Joe" Jefferies tells ABC 17 he is running for the state legislature because of recent controversial legislation on transgender youth and adults, libraries and more. He will face off against the current representative, Republican Tim Taylor from Bunceton. The seat represents Randolph, Howard, Cooper and Chariton counties.
"As a mental health professional, advocate for queer rights (and queer human), and person in long-term recovery, I've witnessed firsthand the impacts of these harmful policies and know the importance of having a voice and being heard," Jefferies said. "This frustration, my lived experiences, and a deep commitment to justice, equity, and the well-being of my community inspired me to run for office."
A Fayette native, Jefferies grew up in the 48th District. His father is a professor at Central Methodist University.
Jefferies is interested in working on state policy in a number of different areas, and tells ABC 17 any opportunity to serve in the state legislature is a chance to represent the voice of constituents.