ABOUT THE FILM

LOGLINE

A portrait of Sarah McBride’s historic run to become the first trans Member of Congress, the backlash that ensues, and her fight for change amidst intensifying political extremism.

LONG SYNOPSIS

STATE of FIRSTS is an all-access documentary following Sarah McBride’s historic run to become the first transgender member of Congress. Throughout her campaign, she navigates the complex terrain between activist and electoral strategies for change, confronting mounting pressure from her constituents. On the night that Sarah wins, so too does Trump, underscoring a nation intensely divided and sending Sarah to an increasingly hostile new workplace.

Immediately after her victory, Sarah becomes the target of MAGA Republicans who ban her from using the restrooms in the Capitol, sparking national outrage and drawing attention to the escalating threats on trans people and trans rights. She is sworn in with a swell of optimism and support from her family.

As Sarah embraces her power in office, she must navigate transphobic attacks: on the day of her first floor speech, Sarah is misgendered and chooses not to react, but the second time this happens, she snaps back and goes viral. The film leaves her on the doorstep of her new job, facing high-stakes decisions under the pressure of the national spotlight.

Director Chase Joynt

Producers Jenna M. Kelly, Justin Lacob

Executive Producers Bill Harnisch, Ruth Ann Harnisch, Chris Panizzon, Chase Joynt, Zackary Drucker, Shannon Hunt Scott, David Steinman, Patty Quillin, Bryn Mooser, Matthew Cherchio, Zach Ingrasci, Chris Temple

Co-Executive Producers Samantha Curley, Joanna Kim

Co-Producer Dani Eddy

Editor Chris McNabb

Cinematographer Melissa Langer

Music Becky Gebhardt

Cast Sarah McBride

FESTIVALS
2025: Tribeca (World Premiere), DC/DOX

AVAILABLE TERRITORIES
The World

EXHIBITION FORMATS
DCP, Digital Download