Seven Siegel, 37, who uses they/them pronouns, has been elected to the Maine House of Representatives, becoming the state's first openly nonbinary lawmaker. Siegel, a Democrat, defeated Republican Diana Kushnar with 3,229 votes to 2,101.
Siegel, who is married to Rebecca Wartell, 40, and is a father of one, stated that while they don't make their gender identity the primary focus of their campaign, representation is important. "But I also think an important part is representation and having people see that nonbinary people exist, and they're good policymakers, too," Siegel told the Bangor Daily News.
Instead of focusing on their identity, Siegel campaigned on tackling the cost-of-living crisis, modernizing technology policy, and eliminating corporate tax breaks. The campaign was endorsed by Equality Maine, the state's oldest LGBTQ nonprofit.
Siegel, a high school computer science teacher, previously served two terms on the Gorham Town Council. They will continue to serve on the council until their term ends in November.
Siegel's campaign website states their belief in building a government that works for all people and uses taxpayer funds to help residents live better lives. Siegel moved to Maine after living in several other states and has resided in Gorham since at least 2020.
Siegel and Wartell became engaged in September 2020 and married in June 2023. Their daughter was born shortly after their wedding. The family has been featured in campaign materials, with Siegel also referencing their role as a parent in advocacy against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In addition to their political career, Siegel was recognized in Forbes' 30 Under 30 list in 2019 for organizing the world's largest game jam. They also led GGJ NEXT, a youth game jam involving children from 20 countries.
Describing the election victory as "the best birthday present I could ever ask for," Siegel expressed gratitude to the people of Gorham and readiness to begin working.