RICHMOND — The LGBTQ+ community says same-sex marriage, discrimination and transgender rights are top issues driving their votes this year.

Some attendees at Virginia Pridefest, held Sept. 27, said fear of state and federal actions are motivators in the upcoming gubernatorial election. Actions by the federal government could impact state legislation, and attendees hope elected officials will protect Virginians.

An executive order issued by President Donald Trump on his first day in office states that the government recognizes two biological sexes, defined as male and female.

The current administration of Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued school policy in 2022 that transgender students must join sports teams, use bathrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities that correspond with thei

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