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[Columbus, OH] - Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin was named today to the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute’s first ever “Political Power List” as part of its an annual Out for America report.
That decision was announced today by the institute’s President and CEO, Evan Low. The list, published exclusively in Politico, spotlights “26 of the most influential LGBTQ+ state and local elected officials from every corner of the U.S.”
“I am proud of who I am,” Hardin said. “And my mission is to make sure everyone else can be proud of who they are as well. In Ohio, that can sometimes be a tough fight. But here in the city of Columbus, we stand up for the rights of everyone. I’m honored to be included on this list, and to be reminded that none of us are ever fighting alone.”
As the first openly gay president of the Columbus City Council, Hardin has been recognized for championing LGBTQ+ rights. This month, he announced plans to create Columbus’ first-ever LGBTQ+ Commission.
About Shannon G. Hardin
A proud native of Columbus’ South Side and now representing the East Side, City Council President Shannon Hardin chairs the Housing, Homelessness, and Building Committee and is focused on preparing the Columbus region for the growth of nearly one million new neighbors over the next 25 years with targeted strategies across housing, transit, workforce, safety, and other issues. Among his proudest achievements are the LinkUs plan and successful Issue 47 levy to transform public transit; the Columbus Promise program which allows Columbus City Schools graduates to attend Columbus State Community College for free; and multiple public safety reforms.
About the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute
Founded in 1991, the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute is the nation’s leading political action committee dedicated to electing out LGBTQ+ officials at all levels of government. Its mission includes training, and providing strategic support to LGBTQ+ candidates to expand representation and influence. Evan Low, a former California State Assemblymember and Campbell mayor, became President and CEO in March 2025.
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