Washington – Today the Human Rights Campaign – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization – announced the endorsement of Wisconsin state Representative Mark Pocan running for the U.S. House in Wisconsin’s 2nd district.  Serving Wisconsin’s 78^th Assembly district since 1999, Pocan has a stellar record on LGBT equality and also has a history of putting Wisconsin’s families and workers first. 

“Mark Pocan is a proven leader who will be an amazing advocate for equality in Congress,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “As an openly gay man, he will stand up for all Americans and ensure that all of his constituents are accepted and welcomed as part of the American family.”

“I'm grateful for the support of an organization that has done as much to advance equality nationwide, and I'm honored by their commitment of faith to my candidacy,” said Rep. Mark Pocan.  “Their support of candidates who have strong records of accomplishment for equality means a lot.”

Pocan is a committed supporter of LGBT equality. He aggressively opposed Wisconsin’s anti-marriage amendment in 2006, has fought for domestic partner benefits for Wisconsin state employees, and worked hard to pass a domestic partnerships bill, which was signed into law by former Governor Jim Doyle. 

“When elected to Congress, Mark Pocan will fight for all Wisconsin families and the LGBT community.  As the former co-chair of the Joint Committee on Finance, Mark has proven himself a smart, effective, and bold leader – exactly what the people of Wisconsin need,” added Solmonese. 

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.