By Caleb WilsonDecember 25, 2025 Politics Laphonza Butler Makes History as First LGBTQ+ Black U.S. Senator, Sparks Debate on Identity Politics as She Leaves Office Laphonza Butler, the first LGBTQ+ Black U.S. senator, steps down amid growing debate within the Democratic Party over identity politics. Her exit marks a pivotal moment in the party’s evolving approach to representation.