Breaking Barriers in Florida Politics: Quinnie Perez’s Story

Quinnie Perez

Quinnie Perez’s political journey began early. “My earliest memory had to have been at age 11, watching the 2004 Democratic National Convention while the rest of the kids were outside playing,” she recalls. Her interest deepened in 2012 as she became more critical of the government’s responses to environmental concerns, like the Keystone XL pipeline, and humanitarian crisis, such as the war in Syria. By the 2016 election, immigration issues pushed her to get politically involved locally. “Being the daughter of Mexican immigrants, I was disheartened by the attacks a presidential candidate could blatantly make about some of the hardest working members of our communities,” she says.

A Journey Rooted in Advocacy

Perez’s work in politics has largely focused on supporting marginalized communities. She began by organizing for national, state, and local candidates across North and Central Florida, while also serving as Vice-Chair for the Marion County Democratic Party. “Yes, it’s great to have a seat at the table, but at times it feels like you aren’t being heard,” she says.

By 2019, her focus shifted toward LGBTQIA+ advocacy and youth voter outreach, where she found space to be “a more authentic and unapologetic advocate.” Perez believes that finding one or two issues to passionately champion allows individuals to make the most meaningful impact. “We all have our role in the community and we can’t all be political theorists,” she says.

Navigating Politics as an Openly Trans Candidate

Being openly trans in Florida has brought both challenges and motivation. After experiencing burnout following a congressional race in 2022, Perez took time away to find her authentic self. “I couldn’t possibly juggle the emotional toll transitioning brought and organize my community at the time,” she explains. By the end of 2024, she returned to the community, energized by opposition to Donald Trump’s re-election.

“Since day one of his inauguration, Trump has made it a point to attack trans people and immigrants. When you’re being attacked from all sides, you can’t just sit idly by,” Perez says. She adds that her identity and the daily attacks faced by her community have made her “less patient with the lackluster advocacy for the working class by elected officials, even from my own Party.” That impatience drives her campaign and her direct approach to holding leaders accountable. “My campaign isn’t just about soil and water. It’s about being an advocate for those most marginalized here in Orange County and our state.”

Encouraging Visibility and Engagement

Perez has a clear message for trans people in Florida who may fear political involvement: “Visibility is important! People are often fearful of the unknown. You are allowed to take up space and your experiences and ideas are valued!” She emphasizes taking initiative rather than waiting for permission. Her campaign has been nationally endorsed by trans and LGBTQIA+ organizations, reflecting a growing cohort of trans candidates running for office across the country.

Running for Soil & Water: Local Politics, Broad Impact

Perez is running an unconventional campaign for a Soil & Water Conservation seat. While the position lacks legislative or taxing authority, she sees it as an opportunity to advocate on a wide range of community issues. “When you knock on a door, the person most concerned about their neighborhood isn’t only going to be affected by environmental issues, but other just as impactful issues that affect them daily,” she explains.

Her goal is to highlight the importance of local races in shaping governance. “All politics are local — contest your local races, fill up advisory board seats — this is where we win,” Perez says.

Experience and Expertise

Perez brings both organizational and professional experience to the role. She has worked as a regional organizing director for NextGen America, focusing on climate change and issues affecting young voters. She is currently an agricultural professional in the medical cannabis industry, where she cultivates and harvests the plant.

If elected, Perez plans to:

• Provide a bigger seat at the table for immigrant issues, including support for farmworkers and mutual aid legislative action.

• Focus on smart growth initiatives.

• Listen to her community and advocate to local, state, and federal leaders to ensure their concerns are addressed.

If she wins the election, Perez will be the first openly trans person elected in Florida. A truly historic move towards increased LGBTQIA+ representation in the state.