Mexicali, Baja California – On August 1, the Baja California legislature made history by electing Jaime Cantón as its new president. In a unanimous vote, lawmakers across party lines endorsed Cantón’s leadership. He becomes the First LGBTQ+ President of Baja California Congress. Activists hailed the decision as overdue recognition and a clear sign that public institutions can embrace diversity.
Cantón earned a law degree from UABC, where he also led student movements for academic freedom. He teaches the Theory of State at local universities while pursuing master’s degrees at CETYS University and the University of San Diego. He first entered public discourse at age 13 as a literary commentator. Later, he wrote political columns that sharpened his reputation as a thoughtful critic. His academic work and early media presence shaped his vision for public service.
First LGBTQ+ President of Baja California Congress
Cantón’s election carries weight in a state that did not recognize same-sex marriage until 2021. Back then, LGBT+ rights faced heavy resistance. Cantón joined demonstrations that year to secure marriage equality. As a deputy, he pushed for the criminalization of transfemicide, aiming to protect transgender citizens from gender-based violence. His leadership now cements these advances in the eyes of the public.
Agenda and Reforms
Since taking office, Cantón has driven reforms that touch everyday life. He backed a 40-hour workweek to ease strain on workers and boost productivity. He sponsored a cap on rent increases to shield tenants in cities such as Tijuana and Ensenada. On a constitutional level, he pressed for explicit guarantees of equality and expanded LGBT+ protections. Colleagues note that his legal expertise and personal commitment lend credibility to these measures.
Cantón built his career in advisory roles before winning the election. He advised the Baja California legislature and served as an Oversight Advisor to the state Congress. He later worked with the Mexicali mayor’s office and advised Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies. He also coordinated the state cabinet as private secretary to the governor. That blend of academic insight and government experience shaped his drive for inclusive governance.
A Symbol for Change
Cantón’s presidency transcends party lines. It resonates with residents who campaigned for equality for years. Several civil society groups highlighted his election as a turning point for Mexican LGBT+ representation in government. They point out that other states still lack openly LGBT+ leaders in top roles. Baja California now leads by example. Cantón said he hopes this milestone will spur other states to follow suit and nurture diverse leadership. Observers note that voters increasingly support candidates who reflect society’s full spectrum of talents.
Cantón has urged fellow lawmakers to expand rights in education, health care, and employment. He believes tolerance must guide every policy decision.
Cantón now leads the Congress at a transformative moment. His election signals that Mexican politics can embrace diversity without hesitation. His tenure may steer Baja California toward deeper reforms in human rights and social equity. He will preside over the fall legislative session, where he plans to introduce measures on hate crime penalties and anti-discrimination laws. As the First LGBTQ+ President of Baja California Congress, Cantón sets a benchmark for representation and fairness in public life.
