A transgender candidate for mayor in Progreso has pulled out of the race, claiming a lack of support from her party, the PRD.
Jared Nahum Arjona Rosas — also known as Noemi — said her decision was also informed by the hypocrisy displayed by the PRD when it comes to LGBTQI issues.
The 38-year-old said that she won her party nomination with no problem, but that after having secured it, all financial support suddenly dried up.
“I am pulling out from the race because it is clear to me that my nomination was just for show. The party has not offered me nearly enough support and is not truly out to help Progreso’s LGBTQI community,” said Arjona Rosas.
Arjona Rosas had been running her campaign out of her own home, and according to reports, self-financed two electoral events before calling it quits.
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During her short campaign, aside from promoting LGBTQI rights, Arjona Rosas paid particular attention to issues such as public safety and access to health care.
The path of Arjona Rosas to the mayor’s office in Progreso was always a long shot, but her candidacy made headlines around the country and was heavily promoted by several transgender rights organizations.
Arjona Rosas has a degree in art education and is highly regarded in the port city of Progreso and its surrounding areas. She is known for her human rights struggles as well as for being very altruistic.
Political parties such as the PAN and PVEM have also nominated a handful of transgender candidates for mayorships and spots on Mexico’s house of representatives.
To date, no transgender candidate in Mexico has won an election.
