American soldier and politician who served in the Missouri House of Representatives and was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in the Republican Party. He was the first openly gay Republican to be elected to the Missouri legislature.
Zachary Wyatt is an American politician from Missouri, known for being the nation's only openly gay Republican legislator in 2012. He made history by coming out during a press conference in the Missouri Capitol, while opposing the "Don't Say Gay" bill.
Zachary Wyatt was born on October 7, 1984, in Kirksville, Missouri, to parents Randall Randy Wyatt and Frances Fran Wyatt neé Quint. He has one sibling, older brother Nicholas Wyatt, a U.S. Navy veteran. Raised in rural western Adair County, Wyatt graduated from Adair County R1 High School in Novinger, Missouri, in 2003.
Following graduation, Wyatt enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving until March 2010. During his time in the USAF, he earned an Associate of Arts degree in information technology from the Community College of the Air Force, as well as an Associate of Arts degree in Russian language and a Chechen translating certificate from the Defense Language Institute.
In 2010, Wyatt was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, representing the 2nd district, which encompassed Adair County, Putnam County, and part of Sullivan County. During his term, he opposed the "Don't Say Gay" bill, which led to his historic coming out.
Due to Missouri House redistricting following the 2010 U.S. Census, the 2nd district was divided into two newly numbered districts. Wyatt had originally filed to run for the 3rd district, which included most of his former 2nd district territory. However, in early April 2012, he announced his intention to withdraw once a suitable Republican replacement could be named. His withdrawal was prompted by his acceptance into a marine biology program at the University of Hawaii, and his desire to take full advantage of his veterans' education benefits.
Zachary Wyatt's bravery in coming out as an openly gay Republican legislator paved the way for future LGBTQ+ politicians. His legacy extends beyond his political career, inspiring individuals to embrace their true identities and fight for equality.
Wyatt's commitment to opposing discriminatory legislation, such as the "Don't Say Gay" bill, demonstrates his strong belief in equality and social justice. His courage in coming out has inspired a new generation of LGBTQ+ individuals to enter politics and advocate for their rights.
Wyatt has continued to pursue his education, taking advantage of his veterans' education benefits. He has remained an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to raise awareness and promote equality.
"I'm not going to apologize for who I am, and I'm not going to hide who I am." - Zachary Wyatt
This quote encapsulates Wyatt's courage and determination to be himself, despite the challenges he faced as an openly gay Republican legislator.
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