We're truly disturbed. Susan Stanton, the former Largo, Florida city manager who left her job after transitioning from male to female, made some comments recently that make us question our unwavering support for her decision:

…Susan has said all along that she's not like other transgender people. She feels uncomfortable even looking at some, "like I'm seeing a bunch of men in dresses."

Eventually, she decided it was too early for transgender people to be federally protected. People need more time, more education, she says. "The transgender groups boo me, now, when I speak. Isn't that ironic?

"But I don't blame the human rights groups from separating the transgender people from the protected groups. Most Americans aren't ready for us yet," Susan says. Transgender people need to be able to prove they're still viable workers — especially in the mainstream.

"The biggest issue against the federal legislation is that politicians think the ladies' rooms will be invaded by guys in drag," Susan says, "instead of someone like me."

Oy…

The transgender tides are changing in South Florida, where city after city has been outlawing anti-trans discrimination. The Sun-Sentinel reports:

Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta and Oakland Park have approved nondiscrimination clauses this year either covering city employees or all residents. Oakland Park was the latest last week and Wilton Manors may consider adding transgender as well.

As the local governments step into equality, Palm Beach and Broward Counties, the latter of which anti-gay Jim Naugle calls home, are considering including trans folk in their non-discrimination policies.

Journo Patty Pensa cites Susan Stanton, formerly Largo City Manager Steve Stanton, as one of the biggest influences on the region. Stanton (pictured) got sacked last year after announcing her sex change. The story caught the national eye and helped elevate transgender into the upper echelons of political debate.

Florida's loss may be Arizona's gain.

Rumor has it that Susan Stanton - formerly known as Largo city manager Steve Stanton - applied to manage Tempe, Arizona's city council.

Tempe officials would not confirm Stanton is a job candidate because they are not disclosing any names except the finalists. Multiple attempts to reach Stanton were unsuccessful. Several City Hall sources identified her as an applicant.

Unlike Largo, which fired Stanton after she announced her sex change, Tempe welcomes trans folk with open arms. It's one of the three cities in the state which protects trannies from discrimination, reports The Arizona Republic.

The nearly 170,000-strong city also boasts another gay activist: Neil Giuliano serves as mayor for ten years before moving on to GLAADer pastures.

Susan Stanton stepped out for the first time yesterday, appearing at a National Center for Transgender Equality event at the National Press Club in Washington D.C.

Susan once went by the name Steve Stanton, the former Largo, Florida city manager who caused quite a stink when he announced his plans to become a woman. Since being forced out of politics, Stanton has undergone hormone therapy and electrolysis.

Though Stanton believes in her cause, she's still shedding popular misconceptions of trangendered persons. Stanton tells the St. Petersburg Times - the same paper that blew the lid off of Stanton's impending transition: "It's amazing how many well-adjusted, well-accomplished, happy, interactive people there are at this event. It's been a learning experience for me, too."

Stanton's also learning about getting dolled up: she spent the hours before the event getting her hair done and a manicure:

…In the morning, she had her first professional blow dry and manicure.

For the day's events, her hair was styled fluffy on top with wispy bangs in front. She chose a soft rose color to accent her sporty nails. She admired herself in the mirror.

"I could get used to this," she said, as the manicurist massaged her hands.

Ooo, girl - you go on with your bad self!

Introducing Susan Stanton [St. Petersburg Times]
Susan Stanton debuts in D.C. [St. Petersburg Times]