The first of what is expected to be a number of LGBTQ appointees in the Biden-Harris administration is veteran aide Carlos Elizondo.
Elizondo, who previously served both terms of the Obama administration as Special Assistant to the President and Social Secretary to the Vice President, will be the new White House Social Secretary. In this role, Elizondo will be in charge of the White House Social Office, overseeing all official social events.
Elizondo, who is gay, was one of four appointees announced by the administration on Friday (November 20). Others include Mala Adiga, Policy Director to Dr. Jill Biden; Cathy Russell, Director of the White House Office of Presidential Personnel; and Louisa Terrell, Director of the White House Office of Legislative Affairs.
In a statement, President-elect Joe Biden celebrated the diversity represented among the new appointees.
“Their dedication to overcoming the challenges facing our country today are rooted in their diverse backgrounds and experiences,” Biden said. “They will serve the American people and help build back better, creating a more just, equitable, and united nation.”
Following the first LGBTQ appointment, the Biden transition team announced on Sunday (November 29) that two lesbian women of color—Karine Jean-Pierre and Pili Tobar—were also selected to serve as key member’s of the administration’s all-female White House communications staff.