Aug 17, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Pete Buttigieg and husband Chasten reveal they're now parents

Rebecca Falconer

With his husband Chasten, Pete Buttigieg announces he is ending campaign to be the Democratic nominee for president during a speech at the Century Center on March 01, 2020 in South Bend, Indiana — Pete and Chasten Buttigieg in South Bend, Indiana, last year. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced Tuesday that he and husband Chasten Buttigieg have become parents after a yearlong effort to adopt a child.

What they're saying: "For some time, Chasten and I have wanted to grow our family. We're overjoyed to share that we've become parents!" the transportation secretary tweeted.

"The process isn't done yet and we’re thankful for the love, support, and respect for our privacy that has been offered to us. We can't wait to share more soon," he added.
Author Chasten Buttigieg retweeted his husband's announcement with the comment: "Some news!"

Why it matters: Buttigieg is the first openly gay person to ever hold a U.S. Cabinet position.

Elliot Imse, a spokesperson for the Victory Institute, which advocates for LGBTQ people in government office, noted to the Washington Post: "Them having a child really shows that LGBTQ Americans are just like any other American family.
"The way that Pete and Chasten were able to humanize an LGBTQ couple for many Americans is the same way they humanize LGBTQ people having children," Imse said.

Go deeper: Pete Buttigieg says it's "almost certain" we've had gay presidents

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Pete Buttigieg and husband Chasten reveal they're now parents

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