Politician uses National Coming Out Day to announce “I’m a man who loves other men”

Maine state Rep. Charles Skold (D) used National Coming Out Day to announce he had changed how he identifies as part of the queer community.

Skold previously identified as bisexual but informed constituents and followers that he now considers himself “gay or queer.”

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“He was one of those rare and beautiful ones you find only once in a lifetime — precious, impeccable, and absolutely exceptional in every way.”

Linking an article published last month by the Advocate that listed bisexual elected officials, Skold mentioned his inclusion and corrected the record.

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“Last month I was listed as one of 35 bisexual lawmakers to know! This #NationalComingOutDay I’ll share I now describe myself as gay or queer,” he wrote on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. “Our journeys evolve. What’s important is living our authentic self every day. I’m a man who loves other men, learning to love myself too!”

Skold, a Democrat, was elected in 2022. He ran on a progressive platform that included LGBTQ+ rights.

“I really feel like we’re in a fight for our future,” Skold told the Portland Press Herald in a piece highlighting the primary candidates vying for the seat. “I’m running to do what I can and to be Portland’s strongest advocate on climate, housing, and on the continuing need to fight for our equality.”

“The advances we have made in equal rights are being threatened, and we need people who will fight for them,” he added.

Last month I was listed as one of 35 bisexual lawmakers to know! This #NationalComingOutDay I'll share I now describe myself as gay or queer. Our journeys evolve. What's important is living our authentic self every day. I'm a man who loves other men, learning to love myself too! https://t.co/DMyRdBbAih

— Charles Skold