Log Cabin Republicans Name First Female Director

The Log Cabin Republicans named Jerri Ann Henry as the organization's new executive director, marking the first time the leading conservative LGBTQ political organization will be led by a woman.

"Log Cabin Republicans have a rich history of grassroots activism and a legacy of great leaders, and there is no other organization better suited to offer solutions to today's challenging political environment than us,"Henry said.

Henry has worked within Republican politics for years, specifically on digital outreach and data-driven efforts for campaigns. She served as campaign manager for Young Conservatives for Freedom to Marry, as well as non-LGBTQ causes like leading the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity. Leaders for the organization say they feel excited for her to take the reins for Log Cabin Republicans now.

The hire comes at a time when the Log Cabin Republicans's board is led by its first woman chair, Sarah Longwell.

"The Log Cabin Republicans Board of Directors was inundated with accomplished individuals eager to lend their talents to the organization, and Jerri Ann Henry was by far the best choice," Longwell said.

"I look forward to working with her to continue our mission making the conservative case for LGBT equality throughout the United States."

Henry takes over from immediate past president Gregory Angelo, a long-time leader for the organization.

"As someone who has known Jerri Ann Henry for years, I couldn't be more pleased to see the Log Cabin Republicans and Liberty Education Forum boards of directors have chosen her to continue the proud legacy of both organizations into the future," Angelo said.

"After achieving the historic firsts of full participation at the Conservative Political Action Conference, formal recognition from the Republican National Committee, and public commendation of Log Cabin Republicans from a sitting Republican president during my tenure, the future looks bright for Log Cabin Republicans; I wish Ms. Henry all the best as she continues to advance an inclusive, winning strategy."

Of course, Angelo's remarks also gloss over the tenuous relationship Log Cabin Republican ahs had with President Donald Trump.

While Trump in 2016 became the first Republican presidential nominee to promise to protect LGBTQ citizens during his speech at the Republican National Convention, a move made to avert a delegate protest, the Log Cabin Republicans ultimately chose not to endorse Trump in 2016.

And the president's record in office with LGBTQ right remains abysmal. He continues pushing for a ban on transgender soldiers and has dismantled protections for LGBTQ youth.

Yet, the Log Cabin Republicans continue seeking ways to amplify LGBTQ voices within the party and to recruit more allies to run for office. Caucus leaders hope Henry's experience with data-driven politics and modern outreach techniques will help grow a "grassroots army" of allies and LGBTQ supporters within Republican politics.

"I'm humbled to step into this leadership role, and I don't take it lightly," Henry said. "I believe my experience with the Republican Party and LGBT community, combined with this incredible team will allow us to build a strong, effective movement and grow the Republican Party of the future."