mayor

“This is a massive victory for Broward County and the LGBT community nationwide.”

Fort Lauderdale just cemented its claim as one of the most LGBT-friendly cities in America with the election of Dean Trantalis, an openly gay man, as mayor.

In a special election Tuesday, the 64-year-old garnered 64% of the vote, soundly defeating Republican opponent Bruce Roberts.

Trantalis’ sexual orientation was not an issue during the campaign, except when supporters of Roberts mailed out flyers with Trantalis in a tuxedo and a ventriloquist dummy wearing makeup.

But Trantalis took the snub in stride, joking “These are outfits I would never be seen in.”

A former real-estate attorney and member of the City Commission, he helped get Broward County to pass law barring discrimination based on sexual orientation. He will be sworn in March 20.

Mayor

“Mayor-Elect Trantalis has a true passion for public service and fighting for civil rights,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman (D-FL), in a tweet. “This is a massive victory for Broward County and the LGBT community nationwide.”

Florida has a checkered record on gay rights but Lauderdale has long been an LGBT oasis. Another openly gay man, Steve Glassman, won a seat on the Fort Lauderdale City Commission, with 61% of the vote. And SeniorAdvice voted it the best place for gay people to retire to.

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