Kansas elects first transgender lawmaker

A former public school teacher in Kansas is making history as the state's first transgender lawmaker.

Democrat Stephanie Byers beat Republican Cyndi Howerton Tuesday night. She will represent the 86th district in the Kansas legislature, which includes portions of south Wichita.

Byers, who is of Native American descent, said she's grateful for those who voted for her.

"You know, it's an affirmation on humanity," Byers said. "The fact that we were able to do this, that the people in House District 86, elected me ... and they were the ones that chose to not let my gender identity become an issue ... I am incredibly grateful for that."

The new state legislator said, despite making history, she wants people to know that she is ready to make a difference.

Among her plans, Byers will push for Medicaid expansion once in Topeka.

Also on Tuesday, Democrat Sarah McBride won a state Senate race on Tuesday in Delaware, who will become the first openly transgender state senator in the country when sworn in.