Trailblazing Transgender Candidate Could Become Mayor of Wheeling, W.Va.

Rosemary Ketchum is making waves in West Virginia as the first openly transgender person to win elective office in the state. Her journey from a high school student in the midst of a gender transition to a city council member in Wheeling is nothing short of inspiring.

Despite facing challenges like a tragic house fire that left her family homeless and financial struggles, Ketchum persevered and became the first in her family to graduate college. Her lived experience led her to work in mental health advocacy, and eventually, to run for city council to make a difference in her community.

Now, at 29 years old, Ketchum is running for mayor of Wheeling, a city with a unique history and a mix of political ideologies. She has faced skepticism and prejudice as an openly transgender candidate, but she remains focused on addressing the needs of her constituents, from infrastructure improvements to support for small businesses.

Ketchum’s approach to governance is rooted in accessibility and transparency. She actively engages with residents, listens to their concerns, and works tirelessly to address them. Her dedication to public service has earned her respect even from those who may not fully understand or agree with her identity.

As Ketchum continues to make history in West Virginia, she is also changing perceptions and fostering greater tolerance and understanding in her community. Through her leadership, she is proving that effective governance transcends labels and identities, and that true progress is achieved through hard work, empathy, and a genuine commitment to serving others.