Not super interested in the other discussions. Just logged in to give feedback on the latest events with Claire.
I like that Jeph seems anxious about portraying a positive trans character. That he is worried at all means he's worried enough to do it well. I must say, I am impressed! He mentioned that he had done research, and it shows already.
For the comic itself, the reaction Marten gave very much lines up with my own reactions in the area I live. It was always either an affirmation of a prior suspicion, or a simple acknowledgement and moving on. This is how I feel it should be; not bizarre or a mystifying revelation, but another facet of a person that you are privileged to know about. The question following, regarding circumstances for disclosure, is likewise a tremendously important thing to be asked when coming out, particularly in a work environment. I remain cautious for the future, of course, but Jeph has already shown he is being meticulous with this, and I approve!
My biggest fear is an obnoxious question in the future regarding bottom surgery. This is easily the most common question I receive, and the most repellent. Especially in a workplace, inquiring about the possible grueling alterations to ones genitals is appalling, but with trans people it seems to be taken as read that you can just ask away. Let me say now that by NO means is it appropriate, ever, unless the person volunteers that information (sole exception for sexual partners). I almost hope that he does cover this issue, if just to relay that message to the world, though I would assume he'd receive significant punishment for the service (see how much anger Dan Savage receives for this or that nitpick).
In any case, I look forward to the future he carves for Claire and how the other characters interpret and deal with that information. What really blows me away is that these characters all have distinct personalities, and will all have to approach the issue in their own ways. That all of that will have to come from one man for this story makes it especially admirable. I'm particularly interested in the discussion of sexuality that may arise, with Claire having been given to heterosexual tendencies. This may mean that she is bisexual, or was homosexual prior to transitioning. In my experience, sexuality has seemed fairly fluid, so perhaps no label at all is necessary.
Thanks, Jeph, for broaching the subject. The more commonplace the phenomena becomes, the less strange it will seem. Having a good image of trans in media is a huge deal that can directly affect the lives of trans people every day.