Lisa Middleton to be Sworn in as Mayor

Middleton will be second transgender individual in the United States to be sworn in as mayor

PALML SPRINGS — Thursday, Dec. 9, will be a red-letter day both for Mayor Pro Tem Lisa Middleton — and the city of Palm Springs — as she is sworn in as mayor of this international tourist destination.

In November 2017, Lisa Middleton made history in Palm Springs by becoming the first transgender person elected to a non-judicial office in California. She immediately attracted international attention. On Thursday, Middleton will be the second transgender individual in the United States to be sworn in to serve as mayor. Stu Rassmussen was elected Mayor of Silverton, Ore., identifying as transgender.

The 5:30 p.m. meeting will begin with Mayor Christy Holstege swearing in Middleton. Following the swearing in, the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles will perform a song in the Council Chamber. The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles is the first all Trans-Identified Chorus in America, consisting of Transgender, Non-Binary, Intersex, Gender-Non-Conforming and Gender-Fluid individuals.

Many have high hopes for Middleton as mayor and with good reason. She listens, has a calm demeanor and isn’t prone to theatrics, knee-jerk reactions, and hysterics.

When Middleton sought re-election to the City Council in November 2020, it marked the first time since 2005, and probably longer, that an incumbent member of the City Council went unchallenged in her bid for re-election.

At the time, City Clerk Anthony J. Mejia said he did not have any existing records that could provide the last time an incumbent was unchallenged.

At the time, then-Mayor Geoff Kors told Uken Report that “Lisa is an excellent member of the City Council.”

He described her as smart, hard-working and open minded.

“Lisa makes a point of hearing from all sides on an issue before making a decision,” Kors said. “I have found her to be a great partner on the many issues we have worked as liaisons on together including districting, the city budget, and ethics and transparency. … I appreciate that Lisa is always up front on where she stands, seeks input from the community and is solution focused.  For Lisa it isn’t about politics, it is about people.  This is a challenging year for someone to run for office due to COVID, and Palm Springs is fortunate to know that Lisa will be on Council for another term.”

IIn addition to her mayoral duties, Middleton will be running her campaign for the 28th Senate District.