Say hello to the Biden-Harris administration's newly confirmed transportation secretary.

Pete Buttigieg was confirmed today as President Joe Biden's secretary of transportation, making him America's first openly LGBTQ presidential cabinet nominee to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. The Democrat and former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, rose to prominence when he ran for president in 2019. He suspended his campaign in March 2020, but his run was still praised as evidence of how far the nation has come in terms of LGBTQ acceptance.

In a statement, the LGBTQ Victory Fund praised Buttigieg's historic confirmation, and harkened back to moving photos of his husband, Chasten Buttigieg, in clear view during his Senate hearing in January.

"Pete testifying at his confirmation hearing, with his husband looking on, will be among the powerful images that define this unprecedented transition and will be remembered as a milestone moment in our nation’s move toward social justice," said Annise Parker, the organization's president and CEO. "Pete is shattering a centuries-old political barrier that will pave the way for more LGBTQ Americans to pursue and serve in high-level appointed positions – and that is transformative."

Pete is just one of many openly LGBTQ politicians appointed to prominent roles within the Biden-Harris administration. As NewNowNext previously reported, President Biden chose Carlos Elizondo, a gay man, as his White House social secretary. Karine Jean-Pierre, a proud lesbian and former chief of staff to Vice President Kamala Harris, was also named White House principal deputy press secretary. What's more, President Biden has committed to undoing anti-LGBTQ policies implemented by the former administration. Since assuming office, he has already issued two LGBTQ-affirming executive orders, including one that reversed President Donald Trump's infamous transgender military ban.

"While this is a groundbreaking moment, I know Pete is focused on the difficult task ahead," added Parker of the Victory Fund. "Pete’s two terms in South Bend provides him the experience and perspective needed to propose bold solutions that address both our crumbling infrastructure and the current economic crisis. He is going to make an excellent Secretary of Transportation."

Congratulations, Pete! Below, watch video interviews with the Buttigiegs and other Logo30 honorees from 2020.

Main image: Pete (L) at his hearing last month with Chasten just feet away in the background.