Democrat Dr. Elizabeth Steiner officially became Oregon’s first woman and first LGBTQ+ treasurer when she was sworn in on January 6. She is also the first Jewish treasurer in the state in 150 years.

Steiner earned thunderous applause and a standing ovation while being sworn in by the state’s out lesbian governor, Tina Kotek (D), one of the first lesbian governors in the country, along with Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey (D). Steiner then raised her arms in victory and joyfully embraced Kotek.

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“Too many Oregonians are living with what appears to be an unbreakable ceiling between them and financial security,” the bisexual mother of three (including a nonbinary child) reportedly said during her swearing in ceremony. “Too many families would have a hard time paying even $1,000 if a car breaks down or if they receive a surprise health care bill.”

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Kotek added, “We must ensure our young people can fulfill their promise and our workers can retire with safety and security. Elizabeth and I share a vision of Oregon as a place where every person has the opportunity to shape the future they want for themselves, and I just couldn’t be more proud of my friend today.” 

Steiner also reaffirmed her commitment to doubling the percentage of kids in the state with college savings plans as well as ensuring “the vast majority of Oregonians are saving for retirement” and the establishment of child savings accounts “so that every child born in Oregon has a savings account available to them when they turn 18, the Oregon Capital Chronicle reported.

She also wants to expand the ABLE program, which allows those with disabilities to save money without losing public benefits.

Steiner was a state lawmaker and family physician before taking on the treasurer role.

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