Stu Rasmussen (1948-2021) made history in 2008 by becoming the first openly transgender mayor elected in the United States after winning election as mayor of Silverton, Oregon. Rasmussen served on the Silverton City Council beginning in 1984 and served as mayor from 1988 to 1992 as a man, before returning to office in 2008 after transitioning to a woman.
During Rasmussen’s tenure, the city developed a new community center, expanded its public library and senior center, revitalized local businesses, and increased tourism. Rasmussen’s election demonstrated that transgender public officials could serve openly while earning the support of their community.