LGBT for Obama

NYT Editorializes for Marriage

2008-05-17T11:48:00.001-07:00

This morning the paper of record published a beautiful editorial in support of the California Supreme Court decision.

The California Supreme Court brought the United States a step closer to fulfilling its ideals of equality and justice with its momentous 4-to-3 ruling upholding the right of same-sex couples to marry.

The editorial also calls for support from the Presidential candidates:

Since the presidential candidates’ positions on gay marriage seem based more on tactics than principle, we do not expect them to shift ground. We would like to hear all of them support Mr. Schwarzenegger in opposing a constitutional amendment. Mr. McCain’s reaction that he “supports the right of the people of California” rather than judges to decide the question was not encouraging.

Perkins Gets Savage Beat Down

2008-05-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

Openly gay columnist, author, husband and father Dan Savage had the unpleasant task of debating anti-gay Family Research Council President Tony Perkins last night on Anderson Cooper 360. Perkins is perhaps the most visible anti-gay advocate on the circuit right now and he is usually very effective in manipulating media; however, he was no match for the intellect of Mr. Savage.

The entire interview served as a microcosm for what we will see on a grand scale over the next six months. Perkins basically had little flash cards with pithy talking points on them that he pulled out at random: "Marriage is between a man and a woman," "Social science proves that children need a mom and a dad," "activist judges," etc. Savage proved though that the same old sound bites are no match for actual intelligent arguments.

Thank You!

2008-05-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

This morning the California Supreme Court issued a historic 4-3 ruling that strikes down California's ban on same-sex marriage. This is a day that will forever be remembered in the journey toward equality.

Celebrate today, but we start the battle to maintain the ruling tomorrow.

Marriage in California!

2008-05-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

Marriage on the Line in California

2008-04-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

The state of California is proving itself to be the next battleground in the pursuit of marriage equality. As the California Supreme Court weighs whether or not they will grant full marriage rights and responsibilities to all Californians, anti-gay activists claim they have succeeded in getting the necessary amount of signatures to place the proposed “Limits on Marriage” constitutional amendment on the ballot in November.

Assuming their claim is accurate, the fate of relationship recognition is in the hands of California voters. Here are the various ways California could play out:

1. The Ideal Scenario: Supreme Court grants marriage and the initiative doesn’t have enough signatures to make the ballot.
Thousands of committed couples in California would finally have access to the privilege of marriage and a renewed sense of respect would return to the institution of marriage by those who have been denied for so long. Anti-gay activists would forever cry “judicial activism,” and they would continue to try every year to get on the ballot again, but in the meantime tens of millions of dollars could be saved by not fighting this fight in 2008.

2. The Probable Scenario: Supreme Court grants marriage and the initiative makes the ballot.
If marriage is granted, but the proposed amendment does in fact have enough signatures, then this election season grows even more important than it already is. Conventional wisdom is that money and organization equal victories in initiatives. With the backing of financial juggernauts like Focus on the Family, Family Research Council and Concerned Women for America, the opposition will be well funded and ready to organize from pulpits across the state. Equality advocates from around the country hopefully understand the gravity of this election and will funnel enough money to California to be competitive.

Evangelicals who are less-than-excited with McCain may have more of a reason to head to the polls in November, but if Democrats turn out as much as expected, California will have a chance to join Arizona as the only states to beat back a marriage initiative.

If equality advocates are victorious, the Supreme Court ruling reigns supreme and marriage will be a reality in California.

If the amendment passes, than the California Constitution is amended to say “Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” This would nullify the Supreme Court decision and it would be extremely difficult for marriage equality to be achieved in California for a long time to come.

3. The Definitely Possible Scenario: Supreme Court denies marriage and the initiative makes the ballot.
The costly campaign would still be on but instead of fighting for the ability to get married immediately, Californians would be fighting to stop the amendment in hopes that a defeat would prove to Governor Schwarzenegger that his constituents are in favor of equality and that the next time the legislature puts a marriage bill on his desk, he needs to sign it.

New will.i.am video = Amazing

2008-03-01T07:23:00.001-08:00

Gay Ad Buy

2008-02-28T18:54:00.000-08:00

Senator Obama has made history by becoming the very first presidential candidate to make an LGBT specific ad buy in an LGBT publication. This ad is going in LGBT publications in Ohio and Texas.

Queerty has a great full post about the ad here.

Open Letter From Obama to LGBT Community

2008-02-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

In yet another example of why Senator Obama will be a President who fights for LGBT rights and equality, here is an open letter from Barack Obama to the LGBT community:

I'm running for President to build an America that lives up to our founding promise of equality for all – a promise that extends to our gay brothers and sisters. It's wrong to have millions of Americans living as second-class citizens in this nation. And I ask for your support in this election so that together we can bring about real change for all LGBT Americans.

Equality is a moral imperative. That's why throughout my career, I have fought to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans. In Illinois, I co-sponsored a fully inclusive bill that prohibited discrimination on the basis of both sexual orientation and gender identity, extending protection to the workplace, housing, and places of public accommodation. In the U.S. Senate, I have co-sponsored bills that would equalize tax treatment for same-sex couples and provide benefits to domestic partners of federal employees. And as president, I will place the weight of my administration behind the enactment of the Matthew Shepard Act to outlaw hate crimes and a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act to outlaw workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

As your President, I will use the bully pulpit to urge states to treat same-sex couples with full equality in their family and adoption laws. I personally believe that civil unions represent the best way to secure that equal treatment. But I also believe that the federal government should not stand in the way of states that want to decide on their own how best to pursue equality for gay and lesbian couples — whether that means a domestic partnership, a civil union, or a civil marriage. Unlike Senator Clinton, I support the complete repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) – a position I have held since before arriving in the U.S. Senate. While some say we should repeal only part of the law, I believe we should get rid of that statute altogether. Federal law should not discriminate in any way against gay and lesbian couples, which is precisely what DOMA does. I have also called for us to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and I have worked to improve the Uniting American Families Act so we can afford same-sex couples the same rights and obligations as married couples in our immigration system.

The next president must also address the HIV/AIDS epidemic. When it comes to prevention, we do not have to choose between values and science. While abstinence education should be part of any strategy, we also need to use common sense. We should have age-appropriate sex education that includes information about contraception. We should pass the JUSTICE Act to combat infection within our prison population. And we should lift the federal ban on needle exchange, which could dramatically reduce rates of infection among drug users. In addition, local governments can protect public health by distributing contraceptives.

We also need a president who's willing to confront the stigma – too often tied to homophobia – that continues to surround HIV/AIDS. I confronted this stigma directly in a speech to evangelicals at Rick Warren's Saddleback Church, and will continue to speak out as president. That is where I stand on the major issues of the day. But having the right positions on the issues is only half the battle. The other half is to win broad support for those positions. And winning broad support will require stepping outside our comfort zone. If we want to repeal DOMA, repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and implement fully inclusive laws outlawing hate crimes and discrimination in the workplace, we need to bring the message of LGBT equality to skeptical audiences as well as friendly ones – and that's what I've done throughout my career. I brought this message of inclusiveness to all of America in my keynote address at the 2004 Democratic convention. I talked about the need to fight homophobia when I announced my candidacy for President, and I have been talking about LGBT equality to a number of groups during this campaign – from local LGBT activists to rural farmers to parishioners at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where Dr. Martin Luther King once preached.

Just as important, I have been listening to what all Americans have to say. I will never compromise on my commitment to equal rights for all LGBT Americans. But neither will I close my ears to the voices of those who still need to be convinced. That is the work we must do to move forward together. It is difficult. It is challenging. And it is necessary.

Americans are yearning for leadership that can empower us to reach for what we know is possible. I believe that we can achieve the goal of full equality for the millions of LGBT people in this country. To do that, we need leadership that can appeal to the best parts of the human spirit. Join with me, and I will provide that leadership. Together, we will achieve real equality for all Americans, gay and straight alike.

West Wing Obama Video

2008-02-27T14:24:00.000-08:00

Our previous inclinations have been validated by Slate! It turns out that West Wing presidential candidate Matt Santos was based in part on Barack Obama.

Prominent LGBT Obama Supporters Interview

2008-02-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

Queerty has an amazing interview with three top LGBT supporters of Barack Obama. I definitely recommend checking out the whole interview.

These three great LGBT leaders each give very different reasons as to why they have chosen to support Senator Obama.

Tobias Wolff

University of Pennsylvania professor Tobias Wolff is serving as the chair of Obama's LGBT policy group. He comments on why it appears Hillary has been winning the LGBT vote and why he thinks gay voters are now coming over to Obama's camp:

"...the actual result that the [Clinton] presidency produced: the only two occasions in American history when anti-gay policies were written into the statutes of the United States. I think the story of the gay vote in this election, once again, has been the story of a familiar name, a familiar brand and then gay and lesbian voters having to learn about somebody new. I think the more LGBT people learn about Barack”s record on LGBT equality and HIV/AIDS and the way that he talks about LGBT equality to general audiences, the more excited they become and the more they switch over to his side."

Wolff continues to address the policy differences between Clinton and Obama. He particularly sides against Senator Clinton on her Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) position. The Senator does not support a full repeal of DOMA.

"I find her position on DOMA quite unacceptable. It is incomprehensible to me that she continues to support vicious anti-gay legislation. When Representative Lewis spoke on the House floor against DOMA when it was enacted and, invoking the full authority of his experience in the civil rights movement, he said, “I know what bigotry looks like and this is bigotry, pure and simple”. I cannot understand why Senator Clinton will not endorse a full repeal of that statute. It’s incomprehensible to me."

Stampp Corbin

National LGBT Policy Committee Co-ChairStampp Corbin has a long history with Michelle and Barack, but he cites Senator Obama's LGBT policy viewpoints as the reason for his support.

"One, Barack Obama is great on LGBT issues and that’s of primary importance to me. Secondarily, I look at all of the other issues across the spectrum. There are a variety of them, from the war in Iraq to economic policies, but from an LGBT perspective, I think he’s better on those issues, particularly with the DOMA situation. He wants the full deal and Clinton believes - it’s just a difference of opinion. It’s strategic to leave parts of this Defense of Marriage Act so our opponents can’t get a federal marriage amendment passed. [But] I don’t think a federal marriage amendment can get passed if we have a Democratic president."

Eric Stern

Eric Stern is the former Director of the Democratic National Committee’s LGBT outreach program. He was a supporter of Senator John Edwards, but since Edwards suspended his candidacy, Stern transitioned over to the Obama campaign because of Obama's refusual to take money from special interest.

"One of the reasons why I endorsed Obama is because I believe the candidate whose campaign is essentially financed by people instead of corporations ensures that he’s directly accountable to the people, not the special corporate interest. I’m confident that Senator Obama knows to whom he’s directly accountable: the American people."

It appears that this election more than any other will prove that the LGBT community is not a monolithic voting bloc. These three leaders show that there are many reasons why people are drawn to fight for an Obama candidacy.

A Glimpse of the Upcoming Month?

2008-02-13T11:04:00.000-08:00

I really was hoping that it wouldn't come to this, but Hillary has decided to go negative.

From CNN:

Hillary Clinton is taking aim at Barack Obama in a new Wisconsin television ad for not agreeing to participate in a debate there.

"Both Democratic candidates have been invited to a televised Wisconsin debate," an announcer says in the new 30 second spot. "Hillary Clinton has said yes. Barack Obama hasn't. Maybe he'd prefer to give speeches than have to answer questions."

"Like why Hillary Clinton has the only health care plan that covers every American, and the only economic plan that freezes foreclosures," the announcer continues. "Wisconsin deserves to hear both candidates debate the issues that matter. And that's…not debatable."

Obama has participated in 18 debates and will participate in two more in the next month. This is a very unfortunate ad that Hillary is putting forth and I really hope that the voters of Wisconsin see this as another example of "politics as usual" versus "politics of change."

McCain Will.i.am Parody Video

2008-02-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

Hat tip to Sunshine for this AMAZING find! We have all fallen in love with the Will.i.am video for "Yes We Can," but this video just may be even better at differentiating the choice America will be making this November.

Enjoy and then comment on what you think of it!

A Hat Trick in the Potomac

2008-02-12T23:09:00.000-08:00

Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia have chosen to join the movement for change.

McCain finally acted like the Republican nominee and began messaging against both candidates. Democratic voters are speaking out and we are coming close to the time where it will be necessary to rally around one candidate to take back the White House.

For now, it is time to focus on Wisconsin to make sure they join Hawaii in becoming Obama Country and then making sure Texas and Ohio jump in.

To celebrate this victory and to get "fired up, and ready to go" you should check out the Virginia exit polls. Senator Obama won across the board.

Dialogue About Gay Exit Polls

2008-02-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

My friend Sarah, who I deeply admire and respect, posted a very impassioned comment to my Gay Exit Polls post.

Below is her comment, followed by my response. I invite Sarah or anyone else to comment in order to keep the discussion going. Thanks Sarah!

Sarah's Comment:

"First off, gays in California and New York may be percieved as people living the 'luxury' life of looking past homosexuality. I disagree. The Defense Against Marriage Act has been a pain in every single gay man and woman's life.

My friend can't even walk down the streets of Santa Cruz with her partner for fear of being beat up. She goes to the restroom at home because she's been beaten up so many times for who she is. One cannot ignore that even in West Hollywood hate crimes happen on a daily basis, many of these crimes are not even reported. Families are ripped apart everywhere in the nation soley for living the life they were born to live.

Do not take for granted the exits just because they were only done in CA and NY."

My Response:

I of course don't think that being gay in CA or NY is a perfect existence. I am painfully aware of the everyday problems facing the LGBT community, and I fully understand that metropolitan residents are not immune to these same issues.

I do, however, completely agree with Mr. Crain's assessment that things are different in the South and in other areas of the country.

As a resident of California, I could get a domestic partnership and have some form of relationship recognition with my partner. I can adopt a child and have my partner have a legal tie to our children. I can have the comfort of knowing that if I am fired or beaten up because of my sexual orientation, I will have non-discrimination and hate crimes protections.

For LGBT people living in some other states, they can't enjoy any of the rights and responsibilities of relationship recognition, in fact, it may be written into their state's constitution that they are never to have such rights. They are completely unable to adopt a child and have their loved ones have any legal connection to the child. Their boss can walk into their office and say "I am firing you because you are gay" with NO legal recourse whatsoever. They can be beaten up or killed simply for being gay and their local law enforcement would receive no resources to be able to prosecute the crime with a tougher sentence.

They are different. There are different concerns wherever you live no matter what your orientation may be. All that I am saying is that these exit polls should be treated with the knowledge that they are a very small sampling and that they should not be treated as a sound bite that with one monolithic voice, the gay community supports one candidate over another.

While, we are talking about the "pain" of the Defense of Marriage Act, lets look at the origins of DOMA... signed by William Jefferson Clinton. In fact, the two most significant hurdles in the LGBT rights movement are DOMA and "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Both of which originate in the Clinton administration.

I do not blame Hillary for this legislation, in fact I respect her answers to why her husband passed both DOMA and DADT. What I don't get is why she isn't committing to repeal all of DOMA, like Barack is.

Response to Gay Exit Polling

2008-02-11T06:58:00.000-08:00

There has been a great deal of discussion in the community about the NBC News exit polling in New York and California that asked lesbian, gay and bisexual voters who they voted for. While, I join others in praising this inclusion, it is vital for the community to not put too much stock in the results.

"NBC exit polling found that among the 4 percent of California voters who identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual, 63 percent voted for Clinton, 29 percent for Sen. Barack Obama and 1 percent for John Edwards. In New York, 7 percent of voters self-identified as LGB and 59 percent voted for Clinton, 36 percent for Obama and 3 percent for Edwards."

Citizen Crain has a fantastic analysis of the exit polls and how skewed they actually are.

He does well in identifying my biggest problem with the exit polls--the fact that they were only conducted in New York and California:

"While gay voters in places like New York and San Francisco may feel the luxury of looking past gay issues in the Democratic primary, those issues hit much closer to home in those states that lack any state or local anti-discrimination laws and where anti-gay bias is a more common occurrence.

I certainly don't feel that luxury. I know what life is like for gays who live in my native South, and I've seen firsthand how the issue can rip apart families and friendships. And laws like the Defense of Marriage Act have a direct impact on my life, since my partner and I cannot live together in the U.S. because of it. It makes a real difference to me that Barack Obama favors full repeal of DOMA and Hillary only half, and because she has consistently tried to defend the nefarious law signed by her husband in 1996.

Exit polling of gays is rarely done outside of New York and California because the sample is presumed too small. As a result, we get a skewed look at what GLB voters really think about these candidates." - Chris Crain

Life Imitating Art?

2008-02-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

Arnold Vinick & Matt Santos from "The West Wing"

Barack Obama & John McCain... 2008?

I still get emotional every time I watch President Josiah Bartlett announce Matthew Vicente Santos and Leo Thomas McGarry as the Democratic ticket on "The West Wing." During a majority of the Bush years, Aaron Sorkin’s creation gave progressive Americans an outlet once-a-week to feel like there was an administration that cared for them.

As the 2008 Election continues to play out, I can’t help but notice how very similar to the popular NBC show it is all becoming. Here are just a few of the parallels:

Republicans: The Republicans nominate Arnold Vinick (John McCain), the socially moderate Republican, over the Reverend Bob Baker (Mike Huckabee). Vinick feels pressure to select the Reverend as his VP to pacify the religious right. He even says, “I have to reach out to the pro-life Republican base, we have to give them some reason to come out to the polls.” Vinick eventually chooses a different Southern conservative to appease the Dobson’s of the world, time will tell if McCain does the same.

Democrats: On the Democratic side, it is a little different because Matt Santos is going up against an imbecilic VP who no one likes. In reality, we are very lucky to have two candidates who are very well-liked. The similar part comes with the brokered convention that the Democrats have on the show and that they will probably have in real life.

Brokered Convention: A lot has been made in the last few days about the Republicans having things settled while the Democrats continue to fight it out. On the show, Kristin Chenoweth had the perfect response:

Greg Brock, The (fictional) New York Times: “Would the White House care to comment on the expected contrast between the high degree of organization and discipline in the Republican Convention and the Democrats anticipated free-for-all?

Annabell Schott, Press Secretary: “I believe the American people will be the beneficiaries in that they will be presented with a clear choice: Do they want to be governed by people who are animated or animatronic?”

Lastly, there are a lot of people who are wanting Senator Obama to pull a Romney and step aside for party unity, with the presumption that he will be next in line. When Matt Santos was facing a similar situation, he gave a speech that has been etched into the minds of fans as something we thought could only happen on television… until we met Barack Obama.

I give you one of the best television moments in history:

California Court to Hear Marriage Case

2008-02-07T00:06:00.000-08:00

Since this campaign season hasn't had Karl Rove to use the LGBT community as a wedge issue, this blog has turned out to be a lot more about Barack than it has been about LGBT issues. So, here is a detour from the campaign for some very exciting news.

The California Supreme Court has announced that they will hear oral arguments on March 4 in the marriage cases challenging the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage.

As a Californian, I am absolutely thrilled to see that it is our state's turn to hear the case for marriage equality. Bills that guarantee the freedom to marry have twice passed through the California legislation, but they have been vetoed by Governor Schwarzenegger both times.

Late last year, this case received a significant amount of friend-of-the-court briefs from California municipalities, counties, and other advocacy organizations. The California people are ready for marriage, the legislature is ready for marriage, the cities are ready for marriage and we will find out soon if marriage equality will become a reality in California. The California Supreme Court typically issues its decisions within 90 days following oral arguments.

Since this is an Obama site, I will leave you with a statement of serious HOPE:

2008 marks the 60th anniversary of the California Supreme Court’s historic 1948 ruling that found it unconstitutional for the state to restrict access to marriage based on the race of the spouses. That ruling was the first of its kind in the nation’s history, and is now the law of the land across the country.

Read the whole story at Equality California.

Interview With KNBC Los Angeles

2008-02-06T00:33:00.000-08:00

I have had the opportunity to take a wonderful class by California State University-Los Angeles Professor Taylor Dark this quarter entitled, "Parties, Campaigns & Elections." As the class watched the Super Tuesday results flow in, a crew from KNBC Los Angeles came in to gauge how the young vote is playing out in California. I proudly affirmed my support for Barack Obama.

Initial Thoughts on Super Tuesday

2008-02-05T23:49:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to both Senator Obama and Senator Clinton on a great day for Democrats. Enthusiasm and voter turnout are both at extremely high levels.

While I am surprised at Senator Clinton's margin of victory in California, overall I am extremely encouraged and excited by the results of Super Tuesday for Barack Obama.

My initial thought on Super Tuesday:

Hillary Clinton won California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and a few other little states. I congratulate her on those hard fought wins in those traditional Democratic strongholds, but...

...I am more interested in the candidate who won the states that Democrats don't win. The candidate who inspired Democrats all across the country to make their voice heard. Barack Obama won Idaho, North Dakota, Colorado, Kansas, Georgia, Delaware, Alabama, Utah, Minnesota, Connecticut, Missouri and Illinois. Every region of the country represented, every demographic represented, every electoral scenario represented.

Whoever is selected as the nominee of the Democratic Party will carry the states that Hillary won, Barack Obama has proven that he is the most electable candidate by inspiring Democrats to fight in areas that are now in play.

Congratulations Senator Obama. I am still fired up and ready to go!

Disenfranchised!

2008-02-05T23:42:00.000-08:00

I am frustrated. I am one of the thousands of California voters whose vote did not count today, because of unorganized misinformed poll workers. Here is a letter to the editor that I have submitted to the Whittier Daily News:

The poor training of California poll workers has impacted another election. This morning, I voted at Merrill Gardens in Whittier and when I asked for a Democratic ballot, I was given a non-partisan ballot. I protested and asked again for a Democratic ballot and I was instructed that it didn't matter what the ballot was, just as long as I was voting in the DEM booth. I was given no other instructions and was told that my ballot went through with no problem.

It turns out that non-partisan ballots included a separate question that needed to be answered on whether it was a Democrat ballot or a non-partisan ballot. Now, thousands of votes will not be counted because of the improper training of California poll workers.

I have worked extremely hard on Senator Barack Obama's campaign and it is heartbreaking to me to know that my vote didn't count.

Adam Rogers

Adam Rogers: A Call for Unity on Super Tuesday

2008-02-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

This morning, Americans in many states are waking up with the power to help select the person who they want to lead the United States of America.

In this short video, I make a Super Tuesday case for Senator Barack Obama. Please take a couple minutes out before you vote to listen to one final plea:

Get Out The Vote!

Back in Time for a Timeless Message

2008-02-04T20:05:00.000-08:00

On the eve before Super Tuesday, I would like to pay homage to that beautiful day in 2004 when Barack Obama gave a legendary speech that entered him into America's mainstream consciousness.

Here is my favorite two minute excerpt:

Women for Obama

2008-02-04T18:34:00.000-08:00

Future First Lady Michelle Obama was joined by Oprah Winfrey, Caroline Kennedy and Maria Shriver at UCLA on Sunday. This highlights video illustrates the magical energy produced when all of these strong leaders joined to fight for Senator Barack Obama.

Dear Undecideds...

2008-02-04T08:19:00.000-08:00

You already know that my heart and mind are both very much committed to the idea that Senator Barack Obama is the best candidate to lead our great nation, but my support of Senator Obama is not in opposition to Senator Clinton, in fact I am a big fan of Senator Clinton. This is why I understand why so many of you are going back and forth between these two candidates.

Lets all just take a moment to realize how truly blessed we are as Democrats right now. We have two great candidates to choose from, while the Republicans are fighting over who is the most "conservative."

Before about half of the country votes tomorrow, I could try and try to find that one sentence that will solidify your vote for Senator Obama. I could try to channel the Senator to use the power of speech to reach into the hearts of the voters to let them know who the best person is for the job.

Though, on this morning, I think that the best way to help you make your decision is through this amazing will.i.am music video highlighting Senator Obama's words.

Thanks very much to Dan for the hat tip. Enjoy!

Gay Support Quick Links

2008-02-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

* Queerty has a great post on how the high profile LGBT John Edwards supporters have gravitated to Obama.

* OUT for Democracy lists many high ranking political players who have endorsed Obama.

* The Los Angeles Weekly has an in-depth piece on the gay power brokers behind the Obama campaign.

L.A. Times Endorses Barack Obama!

2008-02-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

Breaking News: The Los Angeles Times has endorsed Senator Barack Obama for President of the United States of America!

"But just because the ballot features two strong candidates does not mean that it is difficult to choose between them. We urge voters to make the most of this historic moment by choosing the Democrat most focused on steering the nation toward constructive change: We strongly endorse Barack Obama."

Congratulations to the Times on making the right decision! The momentum continues to grow in Obama's favor!

The conclusion of the endorsement sums up the entire Clinton vs. Obama debate. For those of you who are still vacillating, listen up:

"In the language of metaphor, Clinton is an essay, solid and reasoned; Obama is a poem, lyric and filled with possibility. Clinton would be a valuable and competent executive, but Obama matches her in substance and adds something that the nation has been missing far too long -- a sense of aspiration."

Original Debate Rally Video

2008-02-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

The last Democratic debate before Super Tuesday was amazing, but outside the debate was truly magical. Thousands of supporters of both candidates converged upon Hollywood & Highland and even though everyone was passionate about their candidate, most were very respectful and compassionate toward supporters of opposing candidates. It was extremely inspiring and simply fun to be a part of. After the rally, we had the opportunity to go to the Debate Viewing Party hosted by the Democratic National Committee which was equally cool of an experience.

I strongly encourage you all to watch the footage, comment on it and then pass it around to your friends. The sights and sounds of the rally are really fun to experience. Enjoy!

Coulter Would Support Clinton Over McCain

2008-02-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

Crazy anti-gay conservative pundit Ann Coulter told Hannity & Colmes that she would voter for Hillary Clinton before she would vote for John McCain because "she is more conservative than he is."

This is obviously a strategic stunt because Coulter makes no secret of her support of fellow anti-gay crazy, Mitt Romney. Hopefully, stunts like this work because Obama would destroy Romney in a campaign of ideas.

In Coulter's long career of purposefully creating enemies, she has crossed paths with the LGBT community several times, most famously when she called John Edwards a vile anti-gay slur at CPAC.

Read the entire article here.

Democratic Love Fest

2008-01-31T22:52:00.000-08:00

What a great day to be a Democrat! Hollywood & Highland was beaming with an energy rarely felt in life. Democracy in action! There are lots of passionate people on both sides, but there was still a deep understanding that no matter who the nominee is, we will be a united party with one goal!

In depth updates with commentary and original video from the debate location to come soon.

Just four short days away!

Better Than the Oscars

2008-01-31T08:21:00.000-08:00

Alright Los Angelinos, it is time to converge upon Hollywood and Highland today to show the country that California is Obama country!

Look for the red-shirted Obama supporters standing outside of the Kodak starting at 2:00 p.m. pacific. We would love to have a large LGBT constituency there for Senator Obama!

Openly Gay L.A. Councilmember Endorses Obama

2008-01-31T07:52:00.000-08:00

Great News! Bill Rosendahl, the only openly gay city councilman in Los Angeles, has endorsed Barack Obama. Rosendahl said:

"Barack Obama is a leader of uncommon vision, great principle and deep conviction. He has a proven track record of standing up for LGBT civil rights. I am convinced he is the candidate who is most genuinely committed to fighting for our civil rights."

In Rosendahl's endorsement, he provides a long list of examples why Barack is the best candidate for the job:

·Obama supports the repeal of the entire federal Defense of Marriage Act, and has done so ever since he was a candidate for U.S. Senate in 2004.

·Obama has taken stronger positions on dismantling "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and on fully inclusive workplace protections, than any candidate in the presidential race.

·Obama is a strong supporter of every major piece of LGBT legislation in Congress today.

·Obama supports fair tax treatment for gay and lesbian couples.

·Obama supports equal immigration rights for gay and lesbian couples.

·Obama supports domestic partner benefits for federal workers.

·Obama, while in the Illinois Senate, sponsored a fully inclusive anti-discrimination law that included both sexual orientation and gender identity.

·Obama has continued to raise the issue of LGBT civil rights in forums and town halls nationwide. During a high-profile speech on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at King's Ebenezer Baptist Church, he challenged his audience to support gay and lesbian rights with the same fervor they brought to their own struggle for civil rights.

Read the entire endorsement here.

SIRIUS to Hold LGBT Caucus

2008-01-30T15:31:00.000-08:00

SIRIUS radio will hold an LGBT Caucus on January 31, from Noon-2:00 p.m. Pacific on the The Michelangelo Signorile Show on SIRIUS OutQ, the nation’s only 24/7 LGBT radio channel.

Stampp Corbin, Obama's National LGBT Liaison will be representing Obama in the Caucus. With Edwards out of the race, there are even more votes from the LGBT that are still up for grabs.

Response to Clinton Supporter

2008-01-30T13:07:00.000-08:00

I received a very well thought out comment from my friend Paula, who is someone I admire very much. Paula is an avid Clinton supporter and she made the case for Clinton in response to my Obama endorsement. It should be known that I am truly a big fan of Senator Clinton and should she win the nomination, I will put my full force behind her candidacy. It is a great feeling to have a choice between two great leaders, instead of the usual choice between the lesser of two evils.

Here are some excerpts from Paula's comment, along with my response:

Paula: It's true that experience is not everything, but to me that is like saying, "I want to elect Bush 'cause he's not one of those smart elitist guys. You can have a beer with him." It matters.

Adam: I do think experience matters and I do not want an unexperienced President; however, just as you later describe it unfair that Obama has a stranglehold on the word "hope," it is equally unfair that Clinton has a stranglehold on "experience." They are both Junior Senators, lawyers, Ivy League educated patriots with long careers in public service. This isn't a job description with a narrow qualifications field that says "Must have Bachelors and 3-years experience." Who is to determine what "experience" is needed to become President? The question is can they do the job? Can they get things accomplished? Can they keep our country safe, secure and successful? I believe that Obama's experiences in life have prepared him to be an incredible leader for this nation.

Paula: Hope? That has been his platform, but it is Clinton that is accused of cheap shots. "No Hillary, you don't provide hope for the future. You're more of the same...an extension of the current administration." Now THAT's a cheap shot.

Adam: I personally do draw hope and inspiration from Hillary as well, but it is simply a reality that she needs to address that she is viewed as the ultimate Washington insider and the ultimate polished politician. She is seen as playing the game very well and that does lump her in with the way Washington operates in a lot of people's minds. On the spectrum of "cheap shots," I don't think this is in the same galaxy as trying to compare the victories of a United States Senator and leading presidential candidate to an activist who got in the race to keep the other candidates honest, simply because they are both Black. Hillary may not win the cheap shot game, but former President Clinton sure has been on a rampage.

Paula: As for us all being the same and the media being divisive, I absolutely must suggest that we are still incredibly divided and it MATTERS to have a black man, and a woman, and a hispanic, run as a bona-fide candidate for president. We're just not there yet. And trust me, Obama WILL have an issue with Hispanics, and Indians, and Asians. That is the world we live in. It is changing, but the beauty and the heart-break of democracy is that it is very steady and very slow to change.

Adam: I agree that it matters to have anything divergent from the typical straight male WASP who dominates leadership in this country. "We're just not there yet." I am tired, I am just done with that phrase. I understand and accept that change is gradual, but it does not mean that for one second we should not put our full force of effort out there at all times. That is what excites me so much about Barack Obama. For months before anyone voted, the media was consumed with the question of "are we ready for a Black President?" Barack didn't sit back and wait for people to answer, he introduced himself to the predominately white voters of Iowa and convinced them that he was the best candidate for the job. Once he has the opportunity to introduce himself to the voters of the groups you mentioned, they will understand that we are there and we are ready. This blog has posted on the significant amount of influential hispanic leaders who have endorsed Barack and this morning in my hometown of Denver, former Secretary of Transportation and Mayor of Denver Federico Pena enthusiastically introduced Senator Obama at a major rally. My mind is truly boggled by this, can you please explain why Hillary is the better choice for Latinos?

Paula: I hope that no matter what happens, we both remember that whoever the democratic candidate turns out to be, it is going to be such a huge step for this country, and democracy, that I can't freakin' wait.

Adam: Completely agree and I can't wait either!

Paula: The possiblity for actual change is finally here. It's been a while since i've prayed, but I think the rosary beads are about to get dusted off.

Adam: Hail Mary indeed! Thanks Paula, keep the debate alive!

Thank You John Edwards!

2008-01-30T10:45:00.000-08:00

Senator John Edwards is a great American and I thank him and his wife Elizabeth for their continued public service. He has been an incredible voice in the fight against poverty and he is a true champion of many causes I firmly believe in. He has taught us about the two Americas and I appreciate his compassion and conviction in his messaging.

For Edwards supporters, my heart does go out to you. I understand all-too-well the pain of your candidate dropping out. In 2004, I put all of my passion, time and energy into supporting Howard Dean and when he suspended his candidacy, I was very sad because I knew that I was going to have to support John Kerry, a man who didn't share my ideology.

I urge you to find solace in the fact that there is a top candidate who shares the values and goals of John Edwards and he will champion bringing the two Americas into one. Barack Obama understands poverty. His mother is from a small town in Kansas and his father grew up in Kenya, a country truly plagued by poverty. His story is truly rags to riches and it can inspire the country to truly deal with poverty.

I respectfully urge Edwards supporters to take a serious look at the candidacy of Barack Obama. With Edwards out of the race, your votes are extremely powerful and you should award your vote to the candidate who shares your ideals and vision and I hope that candidate is Senator Barack Obama.

Adam Rogers Official Endorsement

2008-01-29T09:43:00.000-08:00

Substantial Latino Support for Obama

2008-01-28T20:19:00.000-08:00

Some media outlets have tried to create a "Black vs. Brown" divide that doesn't appear to exist at all. As much as the media tries to force identity politics down our throats, the reality is that people are voting for the candidate who shares their vision of America, and for a substantial amount of Latinos/as, that candidate is Senator Barack Obama.

We already profiled one influential Latina Congresswoman, but Linda Sanchez is definitely not alone in her Obama support.

This short video shows many powerful Hispanic politicians in California who firmly believe that Barack Obama is the best candidate for the job.

Gay Mention in Obama Acceptance of Kennedy Endorsement

2008-01-28T14:44:00.000-08:00

This morning, Senator Edward Kennedy, Congressman Patrick Kennedy and Caroline Kennedy all proudly endorsed Barack Obama for President at American University in Washington, D.C. In accepting these endorsements, Barack gave yet another incredible speech. Every time he speaks, you can feel the political momentum running up the mountain.

At about 10 minutes into the video, Senator Obama includes the gay community in his speech in an incredibly potent sentence:

"It lives on in those Americans, young and old, rich and poor, Black and white, Latino and Asian and Native American, gay and straight, who are tired of a politics that divides us and want to recapture the sense of purpose that we had when John Kennedy was President of the United States of America."

2004 Illinois Senate Debate on Marriage Equality

2008-01-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Senator Obama's support of the LGBT community goes back a long time, as evidenced in this 2004 debate with vehemently anti-gay "presidential candidate" Alan Keyes. Obama was fighting Keyes for the open Illinois Senate seat and the two could not be more ideologically divergent.

Keyes is perhaps most famous in the LGBT community for his awful treatment of his lesbian daughter Maya Marcel-Keyes. He also was interviewed in the "Borat" movie about gay wrestling.

Barack holds his own and keeps in line with his current viewpoint of relationship recognition. He does get a little preachy with the "marriage is between one man and one woman" message, but it is understandable since he was trying to gain moderate votes from his crazy anti-gay competitor.

Linda Sanchez Endorses Obama

2008-01-23T14:56:00.000-08:00

I am extremely proud to announce that my district's representative, Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D - Calif.) has endorsed Barack Obama for President!

I had the tremendous opportunity to intern with Rep. Sanchez a few years ago and she is an incredible person who has a very bright future. She is definitely one of the most outspoken progressive advocates in Congress and she was one of the very few Democratic representatives who did not support ENDA unless it was trans-inclusive.

Interestingly, her sister Loretta, who is also a Congresswoman, is supporting Senator Clinton. Could be smart strategy for the sisters or it could genuinely be a family divided.

Linda's endorsement is one of many that debunks the media-perpetuated theory that Latinos/as will not support Obama.

Here is the official endorsement:

Gay Mention in Obama MLK Speech

2008-01-21T15:38:00.000-08:00

The Democratic party platform is supportive of many LGBT civil rights and it is supportive of civil unions. This means that Hillary Clinton, John Edwards and Barack Obama are all pretty similar on gay issues. All of the Democratic candidates have no problem voicing their support for the community when they are speaking to predominately gay audiences and when they are taking millions of dollars from gay fundraisers. The difference is that Barack Obama has no problem voicing his support for the LGBT community no matter where he is.

Never before has this been more evident than in Senator Obama's speech at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia--the church where the great Martin Luther King Jr. served as Pastor. In the past, there have been some contentious run-ins between aspects of the African-American religious community and the LGBT community, so for Barack to speak about gay issues in this church is a testament to his commitment to equality.

At about 11:00 into the video, he says:

"If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that there have been times when we have scorned our gay brothers and sisters instead of embracing them."

I highly recommend taking a half-hour out to watch the entire speech, it is definitley worth it:

Gore Comes Out for Marriage Equality

2008-01-17T18:38:00.000-08:00

Former Vice President and progressive rock star Al Gore has done what none of the major presidential candidates have done--he has proclaimed his support for full marriage equality.

While I obviously wish that Senator Obama was also a proponent of full marriage equality, I am still confident that an Obama administration will be very positive for achieving equality and I am hopeful that after he is in office, he will make the next step for full marriage rights.

Senator Obama's Statement on Don't Ask Don't Tell

2007-11-29T18:12:00.000-08:00

Senator Obama has released a new statement calling for the repeal of the anti-gay military policy known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

Fourteen years ago, the Democratic Party faced a test of leadership, and our party failed that test. We had an opportunity to be leaders on the World stage in eliminating discrimination against gay and lesbian service members, to recognize the patriotism and heroism of the hundreds of thousands of gay and lesbian citizens who have served our country. Instead, we bowed to fear and prejudice...

Read the full statement here.

Interview With Christian Broadcasting Network

2007-11-29T13:35:00.000-08:00

I usually cringe whenever I hear any politician talk about God, faith or religion because it usually is flirting with, if not jumping across the church/state line. For some reason though, whenever Senator Obama talks about these items (and it seems to be quite often), it is done in a way that makes me understand that his faith is very important to him, but not in a way that makes me feel alienated for feeling a different way.

The Senator showed his comfort in GodSpeak in this interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), which is the famous home of Pat Robertson's "The 700 Club." It is impressive how Barack can speak in terms that the CBN audience understands and responds too without compromising the integrity of his messages.

Here is the Senator talking about choice rights and relationship recognition:

Obama on Civil Unions

2007-08-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

Senator Obama explains his position on relationship recognition at the 2007 Presidential Forum hosted by the Human Rights Campaign and LOGO. Thanks to glassbooth.org for the video.

There is obviously room to grow for Senator Obama's policy viewpoints on marriage equality, but in a Democratic field that only featured two candidates (Dennis Kucinich and Mike Gravel) who are in favor of full marriage equality, the reality is that Barack's support for civil unions will have to make due for now.

Obama on Marriage Equality

2007-02-13T13:29:00.000-08:00

Senator Obama reiterates his support for civil unions and equal relationship recognition in a University of New Hampshire townhall session.