Yes
83.5%
No
12.3%
Undecided
4.2%
Total Votes: 884
Comments:
These comments are reproduced as written by visitors to this Web site. They have not been edited for content, grammar, or spelling. The viewpoints appearing here are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of advocate.com, The Advocate, or its affiliates.
Peggy Moore
Timid is not the word I would use. Given the right wing, "christian", focus on family agenda, the Demos hope to get into office and supporting our agenda would not be politically wise. Good, but not wise. So, to keep the hope of ousting the Bush/Cheney/Falwell/Dobbs assholes, they must play politics.
Dale L
The Democratic party seems to have learned nothing from the last election. They seem to always be defending themselves against Republican attacks rather than taking a stand on anything, let alone LGBT issues.
David Hubert
The Democratic Party needs to do some plain talking and affirm the equality of GBLT individuals. The party needs to state very clearly that the sex or sexual orientation of a candidate is not an issue. But hate language and attack by opposition will trigger an uncompromising response to the bigotry. We've learned some tricks from watching Fred Phelps and family.
j Gregory
I work on Capitol Hill and am surprised at what I hear publicly vs privately in the Senate. I was also shocked last year when some Senators for whom I work(ed) vacillated on the marriage amendment. This issue of support for LGBT isn't one to waffle on. It is the most basic issue of equality, respect and freedom.
Xyanth
I think the support is there but like anything else it is in a great number of degrees. I have often thought of switching to the green party because I thought there was more support for our issues. I haven't made the switch as I want to support a party that really has some staying power. The more that rally with us the better things can become. Besides there are other large issues that the Democrates are behind like Environment, Wildlife preservation, and Equality. With more gay people actually voting in their partys, huge differences can and will be made. The republicans are showing themselves to only be selfish and certainly not our friends or supporters. More support from gay people will help the Democrates be less timid. Might even create the kind of back bone that will be needed to stand up to the Pat Robertson party of the Christian republicans.
When You vote next...drag a Friend along. Don't forget there are midterm elections coming up and it is vital that we all get out and vote regardless of weather or not the republicans have the voting system rigged. Put it to the test.
Bill Perdue
Politicians pretend to be accountable, but the ones they really listen to are the rich and powerful;. Woodrow Wilson, who knew whereof he spoke, said, “Suppose you go to Washington and try to get at your government. You will always find that while you are politely listened to, the men really consulted are the men who have the big stake… The masters of the government of the United States are the combined capitalists and manufacturers of the United States.”
Machine candidates tell you whatever you want to hear - they ‘understand’ you and ‘feel your pain’, rooting for votes right and left. They ignore principle, decency and their own laws to get elected. After the marks have been mugged, sorry, that should obviously have read ‘after the voters have spoken’, politicians scuttle behind locked doors to meet lobbyists bearing briefcases brimming with big bucks and ‘suggestions’ on how to vote.
It’s important to be levelheaded about the Democratic Party, irrespective of the clueless gullibility of the Human Rights Campaign and Stonewall Democratic Clubs. The leaders of the Democratic Party aren’t our allies. For Democrats and Republicans, what truly matters is their stock in trade and their sole interest – elected offices they sell and trade for money or privilege. It’s all about winning elections, brokering influence, and currying favor with the rich and powerful. It’s not our game, the rules are rigged against us, and we can’t win.
"We have no political parties. We've never had much of them -- I mean the Democrats, the Republicans. We have one party -- we have the party of essentially corporate America. It has two right wings, one called Democratic, one called Republican." Gore Vidal March 12th, 2003 on SBS Australia
The owners of the Democratic Party have an agenda that does not include full equality for us, athough at election time they can be counted on to lie their heads off. That’s in lineconfirmed by their 200 years of duplicity and betrayal. Whatever the issue - slavery, labor struggles, voting and civil rights, imperial wars, the struggles of farmers, abortion or women’s rights, racism, or homophobia - the leaders and owners of the Democratic Party have said one thing but done another.
During the election Democrats manipulated fears of rightwing christians in government to prod us into supporting them but now claim their 2004 failure resulted from supporting gays and lesbians?! (Republicans play a similar shell game, making us out to be devils incarnate to frighten the superstitious.) Senator Clinton, drooling at the thought of returning ‘home’ to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, happily ‘dialogues’ with bigot christian extremists, and Bill Clinton, who enthusiastically signed DOMA, the federal anti-marriage act, cautions that same-sex marriage is ‘the kiss of death'. Both tote bibles these days. After their 2004 humiliation. Hillary, Bill and the Democrats distanced themselves from us but they’ll return with promises and pats on the back when elections get closer. They require regular feedings.
Democrats dance in lock step with Republicans. Both parties oppose immediate and total withdrawal from the criminal oil war. Both stubbornly oppose same-sex marriage and other measures for full equality. Both coldly watch as Americans breathe poisoned air, consume poisoned food and water and they both shamelessly gutted bankruptcy laws, health insurance and pension funds.
The rich are small in numbers but they control vast wealth and command vast power. They succeed in politics no matter which party’s ‘in’ because they own both parties and pay for their privileges. They get tax breaks, luxo lives, aircraft, yachts, multiple mansions, and real power. We get to die in wars, flooded cities and street crimes, and the power we get comes with a bill from the electric company.
Democrats didn’t lose in 2004 because of the superstitious vote or same-sex marriage. They lost because they don’t have answers to the big questions. Democrats would have steamrollered the Republicans had they supported immediate withdrawal from Iraq, embraced trade union programs, fought for the rights or women, ourselves, minorities and immigrants, and promised to curb the voracious greed of the rich. But they didn’t. Nor will they.
On ‘important’ questions – read money, wealth, or privilege – the two parties line up shoulder to shoulder, a frozen phalanx of felonious fakers whose greed and appetite for power are reliable tools used by the rich to safeguard their vested interests. For a century and a half, since Lincoln’s reelection in 1864, the American people have viewed elections, candidates and politics with a sullen, hostile point of view because they’ve been force fed one ‘lesser evil’ after another. Sick of it, millions of Americans refuse to accept the legitimacy of these dismal frauds. Why would anyone? Why should we?
Vote for the Labor Party or any socialist or communist party that
supports full equality for gays and
lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered people.
gordon
I think we are all too timid.For our own ridiculous reasons.
Anonymous
The Dems are too afraid to take on any issue that's not perceived as Middle-of-the-road, including LGBT equality.
Dick Rehse
Since the Democratic Party is too timid to take a stand on anything these days, I'm sure they are too timid to support LGBT equality. It's unfortunate, but we seem to have a two party system today: The Republican/far right Party and the Afraid-not-to-be-Republican Democrat/not-right-or-left-or-anything Party.
Anonymous
One party hates LGBT folks, the other one is happy to take our money and votes but won't go to the mat for us when it counts. Talk about lack of choices!!!
Anonymous
They read the same "men seeking men" area on craigslist as everyone else then remember that homosexuals are sick, soulless sexual-deviants that express "love" with hate and spread AIDS to poor black kids while Jesse Jackson hangs out at Duke! Your "culture" is a lie and the smoke is finally clearing!
nate
I agree that most Dems tend to act timid. Much too timid for my taste. I would wager that most of them in office do in fact support full equality but they tend not to say anything unless they have to. It hasn't been a hot issue in my mind since Rove used anti-gay rights as a rallying point for conservatives in 2004.
Anonymous
I live in Connecticut, where the Democratic-controlled General Assembly has passed legislation covering antidiscrimination, second-parent adoption and civil unions. We call our Republican legislator (a lot) to tell him we are gay parents and kept bugging him until he voted for the civil union legislation. (He keep a record of who calls and how they tell him to vote.) Now we want gay marriage. He is a devout Catholic and has been warned by the local bishop to stop supporting gay rights or be refused communion.
Betsy
I think the democratic party will shy away from making social related issues as part of their campaign and stay on a less contraversial / safer course.
Anonymous
All god-fearing, natural democrats realize that homosexuality is a sickness and a mental defect. They allow for it only due to a deep need for queer political money and votes. In the end the DNC will turn away from the LGBT "community" once the gates of hell blow open again! God bless natural America!
Theresa
The democratic party needs to get their act together and support what they think is right. All they need to do when the righties starting preaching that homosexuality is a sin, is say that they are violating the separation of church and state.
G.W. Bussh
They are a bunch of wimps.
Anonymous
The vast majority of democrats outside of New York State and California view homosexuals as deviant, sick people that should not be normalized in the eyes of society and more importantly children. As a life-long democrat that has only lived in L.A. and NYC I share this impression based on years of friendships with gays and lesbians.
Anonymous
Well, yes and no. Certainly more supportive than the Republicans. John McCain is looking less GLBT friendly all the time.
Lorraine A. Libby
We need the Democratic party to be as outspoken in their support as Bush et al have been in their opposition. People need leadership and strong leadership requires a strong voice. If the Republicans are the only ones speaking out from their bully pulpit, the electorate has only one view at the "top" to follow.
Anonymous
DON'T EXPECT ANY ACTION
DURING ELECTION YEAR.
Robert Barnfield
The Democratic Party today is a spineless, triangulating, poll watching, do nothing bunch of hacks who are so intimidated by the religious right christo-fascists that they forget what they once advocated. Instead of being progressive they are marching in lock step with the regressive repuglicans down the road to a theocratic state. If there was a viable alternative to these cowards I would gladly give my time, money and votes to another party. I am sick and tired of being given lip service while they take the gay communities money and then forgotten after they cash the checks. People ask what they stand for-and it surely isn't equal rights.
Anonymous
The Democrats should follow Feingold's lead and step up for our community. Their consistent avoidance of the issues that mean the most to their constituents is harming more than helping.
Anonymous
I'd like them to support us but I'm afraid that they might not get elected if they did.
Cynder Gray
I don't believe that the Democrats are too timid. Though I do think there are a few members that fit poorly into the ideals and platform of the party. Additionally, I tend to believe that there are so many issues Democrats are trying to take care of that none get the full support they should.
Anonymous
Its sad that in 2006, gay people are still made to feel like second class citizens and do not have equal (NOT SPECIAL) rights that we deserve. Democrats are not doing anything to get my vote...and it makes me very depressed to see all the hatred and ignorance in this country - and to see other countries around the world moving ahead of us on this issue (as well as others from female presidents to better education and everythingin between)
Anonymous
I hope they're not, because I don't want anything Republican in the next election.
Gary Hutchinson
I have decided to vote only for candidates that support full equality for LGBT. I have been a democrat for 30 years but i will not vote for any candidate that does not support full equality. The democratic party needs to take a stand on the issues and stick by them.
steven
we must all support a coalition that supports gender, race and sexual orientation and environmental rights as well. the republican party is becoming a lunatic fringe of the right wing
Chuck Wagner
LGBT citizens are no better off under Democratic Leadership. While he certainly has issues, I think W administration's practice of hiring staff members without regard to their sexual orientation far outweighs anything recent DEMs have done.
Anonymous
The Dems are so concerned about offending anyone and jeopardizing a single potential vote. They've lost their focus and backbone.
marie beaudet
The democatic party has been influenced by the right wing political activists of the christian faith.
fred pfisterer,
Unfortunately the party has been emasculated and is too interested in pandering to the right just to win in 2006 and 2008.
Anonymous
The should collectively try to grow a ball already. Sheesh.
Pete
It seems as most of this Country is to timid. I have been a heteral sexual my whole life. About 8 months ago I ment a pre-op transsexual. I have fallen in love with here so deeply. I just want to be able to spend and share my life with her. For the first time in my life, I have fallen for the inside or the person. She is my solemate.
Anonymous
The Dems need to actually sell their message of LGBT Equality and why it's important, and stop reinventing themselves.
Keith Doniphan Elston
I've been a Democrat for the past 25 years. I have supported the Democratic Party, and I have fought for equality within the party. But I am disgusted by our current leadership vacuum. I have to hand it to the Republicans: they have articulated a clear and easily understood vision for America. Nevermind that that vision is myopic and self-promoting. It's still a better vision than the Democrats have right now, which is pretty much to stay silent and let the Republicans implode. That's not good enough. If the Democrats want my vote, they have to tell me what they stand for, and I want to know that they stand fully behind LGBT equlity, including marriage equality. Very few Dems have done this so far, and that's a shame because if they did, there would be one very clear difference between the two parties.
B. B.
The Democratic party is not in a strong enough position that it can afford to fully support gay rights. Full support would cost them far more votes than they would gain in my opinion and therefore won't happen. So long as they continue to have a few members who support full rights, they can claim more than the Republicans, keep the LGBT community voting for them, and not alienate their moderate voters. It may be timid, and frustrating, but makes sense from a numbers point-of-view and is unlikely to change until overall American opinion makes further progress.
EJ
Nowadays it's still not acceptable to be a gay person , even with all the progress that has been made. If equality is the issue, we should treat others as we WANT to be treated by them. That would help matters a lot.
Joel A. Brown
GOD BLESS Paul Hackett...BUT...
I'm a slight bit of an insider with the Democratic Party in Ohio, as last week I was in the GLBT Caucus meeting with & called by Chris Redfern, the Chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party, specifically introducing/including OUR ISSUES & concerns INTO their official platform for 2006/2008. Hackett's name recognition & the lack of ability to raise the necessary $3 million for a Senatorial campaign caused Paul's withdrawl.
Anonymous
It's not hard to talk about gay/lesbian rights in a personal way. If the GLBT community were just discussed as humans and not as a 'special interest group' then a good part of the public (i.e. voters) would likely turn our way... and the politicians arguing for fairness would not be shunned. It's so easy to defend the case for equal rights as long as you put it in terms that people undersatnd. Only a brave few elected officials (of any political party) have been so brave.
Not a Democrat any more
The Democratic Party stands for NOTHING. And when they find a candidate who stands for something, they drive him out of the party. Idiots. They learned all the wrong things from Bill Clinton's success: They know how to compromise their principles but not how to lead.
Gretchen Bender
How can we expect the average voter to support us as LGBT citizens when we are so inconsistent within the Democratic Party? Many among the Democratic leadership still can't seem to separate the religious from the constitutional and that is a shame. Afterall, this is a constitutional issue, not a religious issue. If everyone could just keep their eyes on the ball (the ball being OUR Constitution and Bill of Rights) then there would be no debate at all.
Robert Goodman
We make up 10% of the voting block in this country. Democrats need us to win elections. It's time we started playing hardball with them: support us fully and you can have our money and votes; don't and you won't. This is a self esteem issue for GLBT people; as soon as a critical mass of us realize our worth, and the value we bring to this economy and culture, we will demand to be fully supported by those we support. For me, at 45, that time has come.
Anonymous
Despite the fact that voters seem hungry for politicians with courage and conviction, few Democrats, even supposedly progressive ones, are willing to stand up, speak out and fight for GLBT equality. Until the national and state democratic organizations push their candidates to grow a spine and do what's right, I refuse to give the party my money or my time.
Rick Morgan
Dear Advocate Readers;
I wish to share with you a letter I read from a fellow gay reader.
In his letter he talkes about the deomocrats and gay issues and the republicans and gay issues. I think we as a community have been led blindly into thinking that democrats are our friends and republicans are our enemies. Time to open our eyes, AND our minds. Minds are like parachutes, they only function when they are open. So lets look at just some specifics. Here is a letter from Amerasian:
GOP FACTS NEVER SEEN IN GAY LIBERAL MEDIA
Many Gay activists mockingly ask an important question that is rarely answered honestly in the Gay press.
What have Log Cabin Republicans accomplished with their loyalty to the GOP?
In the evolution of Gay rights, the Republican Party has proven capable of making a place at the table for Gay people, and stopping or opposing destructive legislation toward Gay people.
In 1978, conservative GOP icon Ronald Regan opposed a California state amendment to outlaw homosexuals in public schools. The amendment failed with Reagan's help. Had the amendment passed, it would be legal to fire any public school employee for being Gay.
In his retirement, the 1964 GOP Presidential nominee Barry Goldwater spoke out in support of Gays in the military. "You don't have to be straight to shoot straight," he famously said.
In 1996, Presidential Republican nominee Robert Dole returned a $500.00 contribution check to the Log Cabin Republicans. Robert Dole now gives an annual $25,000.00 personal check to a New York-based disability group for PWAs.
The Massachusetts Supreme Court majority in support of Gay marriage was made up ENTIRELY of Republican appointees to the bench who were appointed by Republican governors. A fact that has little or no prominence in Gay media coverage. Why? Does it not fit into the bias of many Gay writers?
Passage of the Connecticut civil unions law was primarily led by Republican Governor Jodi Rell. Across the country, most Gay writers were very muted in underscoring the Republican governor's partisan identity.
In Ohio, the Republican governor, GOP attorney general, GOP U.S. Senators George Voinovich and Mike Dewine and the Columbus area GOP Congresswoman Deborah Pryce - the fourth [highest] ranking Republican in the U.S. House - all publicly opposed state amendments to outlaw Gay marriage.
State legislators in Michigan, Kansas, Minnesota, and Idaho opposed - for the record - amendments denying Gay marriage. None of the Gay friendly Republicans were defeated [while running] for re-election.
Several Republican Congresspersons from South and Central Florida voted to support federal hate crimes legislation, repeal "Don't Ask,Don't Tell," and have received local awards for their efforts in AIDS advocacy.
At the same time, traditional Gay activists need to realize that not all is well in the Democratic Party of Inclusion. John Kerry pollsters determined that 45% of his voters voted AGAINST Gay marriage, including 60+ percent of Hispanics, African-Americans and labor union households - pillars of the Democratic Party.
Gay activists must not allow themselves to be uninformed ideologues; all venomous emotion and little substantive research knowledge, except for ghetto propaganda. Nor can they make themselves feel better by pretending that Gay legislation can pass without GOP support. Historical landmark legislation requires large numbers of votes from both parties.
Gay Democrats, get a grip. Get the facts
Anonymous
Until the Red States can be shown how ludicris the Christian Right is, the Democratic Party will be timid. The Republican Party's lying propaganda machine is so busy cranking out BS with the Christian Right. It is so disheartening to see the same old arguements holding back the LGBT community that were so blatantly shot down as discriminatory and unconstitutional - arguements to keep racial segregation and women out of voting etc.
Anonymous
I have given up on Democrats.... I will look elsewhere for real progressive candidates
Richard - Las Vegas, NV
The Democrats are now a party without balls! They are too busy pandering to the Christian Right, a group who will NEVER vote for them, that they are missing out on the issues that actually mean something to the American public. In the elections of 2000 and 2004, Gore and Kerry showed themselves to be dickless wonders and were too "polite" to stand up to the steamrolling Republican machine that emasculated them. We need politicians who know what the issues are, will speak on them, and not rely local polls to pander to the basest issues. Who does the Democratic party have that can withstand the continual onslaught the the RNC will hurl at them? Certainly not Gore or Kerry, and definitely not Hillary Clinton!
Marty McSweeny
I am not so sure. I think they fight battles that they are confidant they can win. Sometimes LGBT issues fall thru the cracks.
Jeff Gardner
It's time to stop pretending that democrats and republicans are even close on the issue of LGBT equality. For every 1 republican officeholder discreetly supporting our issues, there are 100 democratic elected officials publicly championing them. For every 1 democratic officeholder who is publicly cautious on LGBT issues, there are 100 republican hatemongers openly engaged in legislative gay-bashing. Wake up.
Anonymous
The Party platform is clearly pro-equality, and all 10 of the 2004 primary candidates favored equal rights . . . while the 6 "real" candidates stopped short of calling it marriage. WE know true equality requires marriage equality. But the party is lightyears ahead of where it was 15 years ago -- or where the other party is today. And its chair is rather famous for signing the nation's first Civil Unions bill. So this question might be better asked for a rating rather than a yes/no. Give the Democratic Leadership an A-minus and the Repubnlican Leadership an F? (Or a D, because Laura Bush let our families roll Easter Eggs?)
Carlos benitez.
Shame on the democratic party...shame on bill clinton....shame on hillary....shame on Kerry.
Enrique
The democratic party is a bounch of cowards,we need people with courage and figth for what is rigth....we need another party.
Daniel Siksay
Unfortunate but true; the Democrats simply don't have the heat to stand up for LGBT equality. It is, and continues to be, the major problem with large parties in "democratic" countries; once in power, or close to it, said party is afraid to lose votes for supporting an issue that isn't wholeheartedly supported. Simply put, the Democrats are frightened of being bashed by the religious right, and of losing votes in the process.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party is afraid to take a strong stand on any issue that might be the slightest bit controversial. As a result, they appear weak and indecisive and they fail to motivate much of their support base.
Anonymous
Why wouldn't they? They are desperate to regain power. This means, naturally, appealing to the worst of us. Hillary Clinton is pioneering this kind of paradoxical gap-bridging, where people are brought together under the equality of hate, ignorance, and fear. It's beautiful.
Matthew
The Democratic Party is a shameful mess. Their lack of vision, commitment, and clarity is a disgrace. I would be thrilled if they dared to take a strong, and articulate stance on a progressive issue (in this case gay rights, and gay visibility), but I am not hopeful that they will do so anytime soon.
Please, someone in Washington prove me wrong, find that courage, and lead this nation towards social progress and maturity. The far right has led us down a dangerous, hateful road for far too long!
Peace, love, and compassion.
Anonymous
Yes, they have not tried/managed to move the conversation of marriage equality away from religion and focus on the civil aspects. They could also use, but don't, the fact that heterosexuals, the primary children producers, are the primary source of family disfunction. We should be questioning if they should be allowed to reproduce and adopt so freely having proven that many of them are not capable of providing a grounded environment in which to raise children.
Heteros need to clean up there own act before interfere with our lives. The stats are there to prove hetero dsyfunction. Why don't the dems use them?
Paul Bungert
Instead of supporting us, Democrats' view of equal marriage rights seems to be 'the Republicans are right, but they don't have to be so mean about it.' It is sad that even a senior VP at the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund seems to think defending equal rights for and protection of our families distracts from "the issues that really matter." Perhaps it is time the gay community stopped being too timid to demand more than tepid support.
Stephen Sanchez
I think that the democratic party is hurting their own image by saying that they support something but they dont want to hurt their image by standing up for it. Its almost hypocritical.
Stephen Sanchez, 19
Anonymous
I like to think that the Democratic party would support LGBT rights, but I just don't see it happening. Full equality is going to take time and work, especially here in the southern USA.
Anonymous
I am so tired of the Democratic Party acting as Republican-lite, of the Party taking the LGBT vote for granted. Because of this, I tend to vote Green whenever possible on the local level.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party is overall very supportive of gay equality. The Republican Party is not. With Democrats in power, we will come much closer to full gay equality much more quickly. Remember it was a Republican Givernor in California who vetoed a gay marriage bill that had been passed by a Democratic legislature.
D. Knickerbocker
And I would understand this as a political strategy, but where's the follow through? Seems like good 'ol Billy C. taught them he could get our support and not fulfill promises.
Hon. Stephen P. Driscoll
it's really very simple: On almost every issue of importance to LGBT Americans and all across this country, the Democratic Party overwhelmingly supports us and Republicans overwhelming oppose us. The Log Cabin boys would have us believe Republicans are getting better. The opposite is true. As Gertrude Stein once famously said "there is no there there". It's no coicidence that the main speakers at the Logs convention are all 'former' electeds including the one openly gay Republican Congressman pushed out by the ascendant right wing which firmly controls all levels of the Republican party. Could the Democrats be better? Of course - and they are getting better almost every day. Gay Democrats have an equal seat at the table. Gay Republicans can't get past the door.
David
The Democratic Party has consistently opposed the Federal Marriage Amendments and been an advocate of equality. I suppose you can give the GOP points for having a gay, if not publicly closeted man, Ken Mehlman as it's chair, even though he created some of the worst anti gay campaign material in 2004. There is no comparison between the two parties regarding LGBT issues. If you think your elected officials are too timid or don't fully understand LGBT rights, reach out and talk to them. I have been involved in the campaigns of candidates who were initially timid. However after working with LGBT voters have moved to being our strong supporters
Jon Winkleman
The Democratic Party is far from being perfect. Whereas they may sometimes stumble and fall in their efforts towards LGBT equality, they are still making the effort. The GOP on the other hand has little diversity in it's ranks. There were fewer African American delegates to the last convention than there were in the 20's. Every year the Democrats are supporting and tapping more LGBT candidates to run for office. Meanwhile the GOP is pushing straight candidates to challange veteran LGBT elected officials like Jim Kolbe in the primaries. The most important thing is whether or not you are out to your family or at work, you MUST come out to your elected officials. The more LGBT constituents they know the better they will be on our rights.
Bob & Richard Las Vegas NV
365Gay.com,
After reading your story on the Pope's Good Friday attack on Gay families, it has come to mind the number of Gays and Lesbians who still claim to be Catholic. How can any sane gay or humanity loving person follow a theology of hate. From this moron's mouth comes the most vile rhetoric used against a group of people since Adolph Hitler turned Germany against the Jews (Hitler by the way was nothing short of a mentor to Benedict).
If the GLBT community doesn't come together soon and show its enormous political muscle, its vast monetary strength and its academic prowess, it will be to late. Pope Benedict the Nazi, along with other Right Wing Christians, Moslems and Jews will take away every freedom we have and will turn our very existence into nothing short of a Living Hell!
Rachel Miller
Yes. I will hold my nose and pull the "D" lever, as usual. The only thing good about the Democrats is that they are not Republicans.
Keith Andrews
They can't help us if they can't get elected.
Hal
I cannot trust them to really advocate for me if they believe my 32 year relationship with my partner is not worthy of the word "marriage".
RFH
Polititions are afraid to openly support LGBT not because of timidity but fear they might lose votes .
Anonymous
Of course they are, but rightfully so. To openly and fully accept LGBT equality means isolating the half of the country who wants the exact opposite. The Democratic party needs to present a strong leader who is not consumed with ideals but who has real answers to the nations problems.
Babs Casbar
It is a fair statement that the Democratic party has been in general too timid to openly support LGBT issues. We can blame consultants who tell candidates (who would overtly support us to downplay their support or even ignore us), but the bottom line is that most GLBT people do not work for that support, or even bother to ask, but somehow they expect it.
In my progressive state, we had no representation on our Democratic State Committee, why? because nobody asked, nobody would come forward. I'm happy to say things are changing because we are out there working and they know it and recognize it.
National Stonewall Democrats and its hundred chapters and affiliates have in fact stepped up to push and partner with the Democratic Party to enlighten and strengthen the party and help elect fair minded Democrats at all levels.
Does the GLBT community need more respect? Of course, but Stonewall Democrats needs more people to join and enlarge our visible critical mass. Whining and bellyaching will get us nowhere. Smart activism, volunteering, and money (any combination of the 3) will get us the respect and power we need.
As far as the writer who claimed the Republicans kept him safe and secure, and didnt care about marriage... I ask, what party supports protections against Hate Crimes and employment discrimination of LGBT people? Duh??? I think it's a no brainer and there is no alternative... it's the Democrats! And if your local party officials are not supportive, contact and support Stonewall Democrats. It's your life!!
Babs Casbar
It is a fair statement that the Democratic party has been in general too timid to openly support LGBT issues. We can blame consultants who tell candidates (who would overtly support us to downplay their support or even ignore us), but the bottom line is that most GLBT people do not work for that support, or even bother to ask, but somehow they expect it.
In my progressive state, we had no representation on our Democratic State Committee, why? because nobody asked, nobody would come forward. I'm happy to say things are changing because we are out there working and they know it and recognize it.
National Stonewall Democrats and its hundred chapters and affiliates have in fact stepped up to push and partner with the Democratic Party to enlighten and strengthen the party and help elect fair minded Democrats at all levels.
Does the GLBT community need more respect? Of course, but Stonewall Democrats needs more people to join and enlarge our visible critical mass. Whining and bellyaching will get us nowhere. Smart activism, volunteering, and money (any combination of the 3) will get us the respect and power we need.
As far as the writer who claimed the Republicans kept him safe and secure, and didnt care about marriage... I ask, what party supports protections against Hate Crimes and employment discrimination of LGBT people? Duh??? I think it's a no brainer and there is no alternative... it's the Democrats! And if your local party officials are not supportive, contact and support Stonewall Democrats. It's your life!!
Robert Stiefel
But for Russ Feingold and Barbara Boxer and a few others, the Democrats are spineless. Kerry and Hilary Clinton need to retire the side as one step to reducing double-speak. The Democrats have us in a bind: the Bushites are so bad that the Democrats can toy with us and still get our votes.
Anonymous
Gay men and lesbians and all people concerned with peace and social justice need to push the Democratic Party harder to do what's right. Any "third party" option is an exercise in futility, and the Republicans just disgust me.
Laurie McBride
The Democratic National Committee is partnering for the first time with the National Stonewall Democrats in key efforts to register and mobilize LGBT voters. In addition, NSD staff and board members are working with democratic leaders at the national and local levels. Key state parties have adopted marriage equality as the normative stance. Democrats remain the party of equality.
JT
As a lifelong New England native and former Democrat, I have to say, I bow my head in shame and disgust at the behavior of the Democratic party. Not only do they not have a national platform to run on, but when it comes to GLBT equality, they take the "duck and cover" approach. At least the Republicans have the guts to hate us to our face, so we know who are enemies are. Where do we really stand with the dems? Nowhere. Thats why I became an independent.
Ed Hiser
The party seems to be motivated solely on the conditions that will allow candidates to get votes and not on conviction.
click212
I don't know if it is timidity or just lack of vision and leadership. Perhaps the Dems have no platform because they have an invisible constituency. Those in the middle class that have gone to the Republican side and those that have become independents and then there are the lack luster few who, like their repesentatives, are just waiting for the Republicans to finish killing themselves off with corruption, leak issues and the debacle of Iraq.
It appears as if we have one party and a shadow some where in the wings. Dems in attempting not to offend anyone by taking a stand on important issues, have nothing to stand on.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party is too timid to openly support LGBT equality and Canidates who favor full equality. Yet we in the LGBT Community continue to follow them like sheep. Maybe we should withhold our support just one time and see what happens in those close races. After that, there may be a renewed move to support our causes. Keeping it samo, samo, is just not working.
Anonymous
GW Bush has openly declared that it is acceptable to discriminate against us. There have been incidents of violence that support that he has given people permission to hate us and be intolerant. Wasn't this how the Holocaust started? Where are the Democrats who are standing up and saying this is wrong? And those that do so seem to be silenced by the democratic party. Hillary Clinton does not support gay marriage so she can protect her political ambitions. She is one of many. The time has come for us to not accept this. Speak out, come out, stand up for our rights and make those we elect serve our needs as well. And if you are reading this and you don't go out and vote in local elections -you have no right to complain.
Seth Morrison
The Democrats are the LGBT community's strongest allies in our battle for rights.
It is unfair to expect a Democratic litmus test on any issue from every individual. The party platform supports our rights vs the unthinkable alternatives.
George Blomme
Unfortunately the Democratic Party has become worthless. Its difficult to think that I may well vote Republcan in the next elections simply because the Demos have no leadership, no leaders, and no clear commitment even to women's rights to abortion, or of course gay marriage. They are a sham of a party at the time.
Anonymous
Listen up folks the ONLY way we are EVER going to win this culture "war" is to physically REPRODUCE our numbers! The technology will very soon be available for TWO same sex couples to finally have our OWN offspring! Yes, then we can challenge hetero religious ignorance DIRECTLY at the polls! OUR day of JUSTICE is coming very very soon!
Anonymous
I care if we have the right to get married!
LR
If psychotic islamofacists blow us to hell because we don't bow to Allah and are friends with Israel....who cares if we are married? Long before George Bush was born they've wished our destruction and it pisses me off all we care about is whether or not a candidate will let us get married!
I support the party that protects my country and my life, not whether or not I can get a stupid piece of paper justifying my union.
Doug McClure
The Democratic Party lacks leadership and conviction on almost every major issue, including LGBT equality. If they think that they can win in November by simply being the "not-Republican" party they are in for major disappointment.
Scott
The fault is not so much with the Democratic Party, but with the GLBT community itself. In states like Massachusetts, California and New York that have large cities with well organized communities, candidates freely talk about LGBT issues, but this is the exception. In rural communities and cities where being "closeted" is the norm rather than the exception, Democratic candidates lack the political support to advance our issues. On the other hand, Republicans everywhere feel perfectly comfortable bashing our community and gay-baiting their opponents. All politics is local, and if change is to happen, we have to make that change.
jak kesterson
someone needs to be as outspoken about our rights as they were in the 60s about the rights of blacks howard dean is not the leader we need he dosent even appear presidential the person needs to look as well as speak the part he does neither we need a carismatic leader with the rights of all citizens at the front
Anonymous
It can do the right thing when organizations like National Stonewall Democrats are urging its members to support good candidates. We should support good candidates with organized money and organized people. That's how we build political power. I'm not confident the Democrats can do it without a strong LBGT Democratic voice.
Raymond Buckley
The job of the Democratic Party organization at every level is to elect Democrats. When the candidates lead the party will support. It is not the party's job to demand or impose a position.
On the flip side, it is clear that Karl Rove and Company have demonized our lives just enough voters as to continue their culture of corruption.
It is time to stop fretting what happens in DC and start mobilizing in every community.
Stephen from Louisiana
The Democratic Party as a whole needs to keep being PUSHED to do the right thing. It is because of National Stonewall Democrats strong CARROT and STICK approach that we are seeing some meaningful changes in the Party. We cann't just turn our backs and say it isn't working, this takes time. In the Kerry/Edwards election it was clearly proven that GLBT Vote was the second most loyal voting block that the Democratic Party has... I urge everyone to support NATIONAL Stonewall Democrats as well as Local Chapers of Stonewall Democrats as they are seeing HUGE strides forward in acomplishments. Not to mention they insure their Moneys go directly to productive actions both nationally and locally - I don't think that can be said for other larger groups.
Andrew Murry
I plan to change my donations to groups such as HRC, Stonewall Dem's or directly to candidate that I like. I live in Ohio and would certainly have voted for Paul Hackett. I agree with the article in the Advocate that Sherrod Brown is more of the same.
Andrew Murry
I plan to change my donations to groups such as HRC, Stonewall Dem's or directly to candidate that I like. I live in Ohio and would certainly have voted for Paul Hackett. I agree with the article in the Advocate that Sherrod Brown is more of the same.
Anonymous
of course they are....they want the votes but give NOTHING in return
Mr. Merle H. Sykora
Sadly, they've lost focus. Liberal and progressive are not dirty words. They foreget that homosexuals vote AND contribute money. With our disposable income we are able to support candidates heavily. Ignore us at their peril
Anonymous
Democrats don't even discuss GLBT issues in their speeches or when running for office.
Anonymous
So far, they have been. But I want to give them the benefit of the doubt, and give Howard Dean a chance to change the face of the Democrats; as long as they remain trying to be "Republican Light" they will never risk their electorate over doing The Right thing.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party must win the next election. In Canada, parties are afraid not support full equality rights for Canadians. However, candidates in smaller centres have a very difficult time winning seat when supporting bills such as same sex marriage. Many did it, but it took a great deal of work. I question if this could be done in the States when it seems the church has become so much a part of everyday life in the US. Indeed, this has been so very sad to see. The Democratic Party must determine the best course to win the next election and then think about restoring human rights.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party must win the next election. In Canada, parties are afraid not support full equality rights for Canadians. However, candidates in smaller centres have a very difficult time winning seat when supporting bills such as same sex marriage. Many did it, but it took a great deal of work. I question if this could be done in the States when it seems the church has become so much a part of everyday life in the US. Indeed, this has been so very sad to see. The Democratic Party must determine the best course to win the next election and then think about restoring human rights.
Michele KŠmmerer
It is not the party that is timid, it is a few of our Democratic office holders and consultants that are fearful. For example, the Washington State Democratic party platform supports marriage equality. There are Democratic politicians that unequivocally support queer civil rights and we need to support them with our money and our time. A good way to influence the Democratic party at all levels is to be an out Democrat and to join your local or state Stonewall Democratic club or start one!
Michele KŠmmerer
Stonewall Democrat
Bellingham, WA
Anonymous
I think the democratic party doesn't have the backbone to stand up for LGBT equality or any other issue for that matter]the Iraq war,etc.). However on the other side of that ,
depending what part of the country your from it may be next to impossible to stand up for what you believe in without being shot down politically.
Gary Parker
We've got to take the "gay issue" out of the Republicans' hands. Our candidates can be more discreet about their surrport for us. The main point to to quit allowing right-wings homophobes to use us as issues to get elected and do us real harm. We need to focus on getting people elected who will at least not harm us; probably protect us; and possible reverse some of the damage that's already been done. I think we need to be a little more politically savvy and realistic regarding the "marriage issue." While it may be the most precious issue to many of us, our first priority is getting sympathetic people elected. If we need to be a little less vocal and not hold these peoples' feet (meaning Democratic candidates) to the fire on this issue. Get them elected first; ask for the legistlative follow-up once they are there.
Roger
"We" have let the Democratic Party to take us for granted. It's high time all our groups (LGBT) join and vote Libertarian. It has supported us with action since day one. I don't agree with every thing it stands for, but then no one agrees with every thing of the two major party's. At its high point, Clark received 5% of the vote national and almost carried Alaska. If we got behind it and got our act together, we could show our real power, or lack of it. If there really are more gays than Jews, let's see it.
Brian
IT would be nice it the Democratic party would differientate itself from the other major party by standing up for what is just rather than trying to avoid alienating people who are not going to support them in the long run.
Betsey Locke
The Democratic Party is timid on ALL of the important issues, including equal rights for all Americans. Where is the passion and the idealism to spark the fire in people's souls? Why would they want to imitate the Republicans who have sold their souls to the highest bidders? I will never vote for a Republican, but I just wish the Democrats would grow a backbone and stand up for what is right!
Bruce Converse
Both party's are more interested in getting re-elected than doing what is right, which is equal legal recognition for same-gender couples. Fair-minded members of both party's need to do what is right, not pandering to extremist groups. If equal rights for GLBT people are thrown under the bus and we are made second-class citizens, the next to go is women's rights, such as abortion. Politicians need to stay out of people's personal lives.
Bukky
The democratic party needs to present an unapologetic option. A democrat that is not pro-choice and does not fully support ALL civil rights is not a democrat, they are a republican in disguise.
Anonymous
As a gay american, I just feel like fodder in the polictical machine....it's not just the politicians, the parties, and elected officals, supportive heterosexuals who are uninformed and uninterested the unequality experienced by GLBT citizens do nothing to help our plight.
Anna
If the Democrats want to show themselves as a REAL alternative to the GOP,they should be willing to take a strong stand--on ANYTHING,be it Iraq or the economy.Let's remember how Pres.Clinton touted himself as a pro-gay but then signed the Defense of Marriage Act.
Sean
lately, the democratic party has moved to the middle to win swing voters and people uncomfortable with gay rights
Richard in Kansas City
I have been a Democrat since I was 16 years old. I'm 68 years old now. This is the first time in my life that I am truly ashamed of the Democratic party. WHERE THE HELL ARE THEY??? We have one of the most incompetent, lying, untrustworthy presidents and administrations in our nation's history and the loyal opposition (the Democrats) are sitting on their thumbs. Too timid to support LGBT equality...they're to timid to move - on anything! Harry Truman must be spinning in his grave.
Chris in Memphis
Each party is too busy trying to destroy the other one to ever give a damn about gay people. The Democrats consider us an automatic vote and therefore think that they do not have to stand up for us when we need them.
Rob
Oh Yes! Although the Gay community has plenty of money with large numbers of prominent and extremely wealthy members, it is the Christian Right that spends its money to push its agenda. Until the Gay community decides to come together and display the power in numbers that we have, we will be outspent and our vocie will be drowned out by the hateful spending of the Right Winged bigots of America. The Democratic party like its alter ego ; the Republican party, is beholding to which ever group comes up with the most money, Congress is not looking to pass legislation to help Gays or Hispanics or any other group for that matter, members of Congress instead spend their Congressional careers trying to get re-elected!
Brian
The democratic party is ineffictive because they are split between those who remain faithful to democratic values and those who think that they must become "centrist" in order to be elected. Senator Feingold, Jack Murtha, Howard Dean, Paul Hackett and Nancy Pelosi are members of the democratic group who remain faithful to democratic values and stand up for the rights of all americans. Hillary Clinton leads the group of centrists who believe that a democrat can only be elected by becoming a centrist and catering to the christian radical who breed discrimination -- Tim Kaine is her patron saint. I live in the south, where discrimination is born and bred.
T. Thornton
I'm sick and tired of being used as a pawn by the Democratic Party and receiving little more then lip service. It can be traced back to President Clinton's ravingly fabulous plan to allow gays to serve openly in the military. On active duty with the Navy in 1991, I came out. Yep....honorably discharged and out the door in less than six months. And to think I voted for him over Bush and Perot believing he would deliver on his promises for the gay community. Once bitten, twice shy....sorry Dems. Log Cabin for now.
Anonymous
To openly support LGBT candidates would incite those narrow minded religous "wrong"right followers ( the ones that preach Hate ) to attack all DEMOCRATS !
Mark B. A. Cappetta
Indeed they are! My partner and I have left the Democratic Party and are now Independent. We are embarrased and angry with the Democrats for being such cowards, and not taking advantage of the numerous disastrous decisions made by president Bush and his associates. We need the Democratic Party of the 1960's and 1990's!
Anonymous
It seems like all major political parties are too timid to support LGBT rights issues. This is probably because politicians realize that the gay community is outnumbered by the bible worshiping community. Politicians must do whatever will get them the votes to win. The right thing to do and the popular thing to do are not the same things. Not all republicans are resistive to the advancement of gay rights and not all democrats are supportive of them.
FR Gillette
The answer hear is simple and it is a question - How many people are there in the Democratic Party ? and How many of them have gone on record saying that they will support nothing less than full equality for every American including the LGBT population ? The other act of weekness that we and the world suffers for daily was when they let Bush steal the election twice.
Dennis Reed
The Democrats sold out on GLBT people, liberals, and all Americans by being too timid about EVERYTHING! When I hear peolpe say things like "The Dems in Congress can't speak out because they are not in power" I think "The Dems in Congress aren't in power because they don't speak out." They are trying to be poor imitations of Republicans and end up being known as flip-floppers because they won't take a stand. They have let the Republicans take charge and do horrible things to GLBT people, to Americans, and to the world.
I'm moving to England.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party needs to give up the ghost and let some other viable organization challenge the Republicans.
Carlos/Montreal
The Democratic party in the U.S. must get real! The total rights for the LGBT community is overdue. I hope there is someone in this party who has a wide vision and accept people the way they are and fight for them. Let's stop hypocrisy and get out of closet, is now or never! We Canadian did it and we are living well!
Shawn
Look at the picture. I am voicing my opinion everyday... and many of the LGBT community do not. This is what is pathetic in our community. We can do more if you just get off your asses and vote, or at least speak up.
Ron
Yes, at present. But we should support them and emphasize the fact that what we're after is full civil rights in all areas. Also make then aware we are a substantial voting and donating block. All we're asking is they help us upgrade from being second-class citizens.
Anonymous
The Democratic party cowers behind the Republicans. They need to start actively fighting for something we believe in. We all know what the Republicans stand for but the Democrats just pick apart whatever that is. The Democratic party has no backbone and keep pushing futher and further to the center. Liberals in the party are hardly represented on social issues. I think the reason GLBT rights is at such a loss is because neither party actively supports us, so where does that leave us?
Anonymous
The Democratic party cowers behind the Republicans. They need to start actively fighting for something we believe in. We all know what the Republicans stand for but the Democrats just pick apart whatever that is. The Democratic party has no backbone and keep pushing futher and further to the center. Liberals in the party are hardly represented on social issues. I think the reason GLBT rights is at such a loss is because neither party actively supports is, so where does that leave us?
Anonymous
The Democratic Party has slowly, but surely, been moving further and further to the right. They have left behind their core supporters in search of moderate Republican votes in order to win...the problem is, if this is how one wins a campaign then to stay in that position one must continue to pander to those right wing agendas otherwise re-election is not a possibility. The fundamental issues for thier core supporters are no longer being addressed. I see us moving toward a one party state if the Dems don't get a backbone and start to fight for their base!!!
Brock
Until we all can be seen as Americans regardless of how we look or who we love we will be too "hot" for American political parties to support. It's something we all need to work on every day.
Green Gay
Of course they are. Have we already forgotten that their last presidential candidate actively advocated state constitutional amendments to ban gay marriage? Have we forgotten that Bill Clinton signed both Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and the Defense of Marriage Act into law? And that Barney Frank helped engineer the former of those two? Except at the local level, I can’t recall any Democratic politician who ever stood up for LGBT equality. There is Russ Feingold, of course, and he seems to be the only politician of either party in Congress willing to stand up for the ideals this country was founded on (remember them? or are they a quaint historical footnote by now?). But Feingold’s a Jew and a liberal; there’s simply no chance he’ll get the party’s nomination. As for the rest of the Democrats…ROT! But Jesse Jackson is talking about trying to mount an independent presidential candidacy (not necessarily for himself). It’s time for the queer community to come to its senses, stop blindly supporting a party that doesn’t support us in return just because they’re not quite as awful as the GOP, and get behind a movement that might lead to actual change—and maybe even progress.
John Koehler
Except for Russ Feingold, the Dems are weak. He is the only hope not only for civil rights in general, but for repairing American relations abroad. This is a man with principles who stands by his principles and cannot, CANNOT be bought. He won the Wisconsin senatorial seat running against two well-funded establishment Democrats...because he ran an honest, issue-focused campaign. As Reagan united the Republicans, we must support Senator Feingold to bring the Democrtas back to the progressive Left.
Anonymous
LGBT communities are supposed to do a lock step with the Democrats. Well, I don't believe for one minute these 'enlightened souls' would stand up for us if they thought it would cost them control of the White House.
Hillary, a Hawk in sensible shoes, likes to talk a good game. But I don't believe ANY of the current front-runners are interested in us, except as a loyal block of voters who are placated with: "We're better than the Republicans." crap.
Better my Aunt Fanny...
Jer D - Wisconsin
Yes, as is all too obvious on nearly every count, the majority of the professional, perennial politicians of either dominate stripe are too timid to actually voice a true opinion on any subject that does not obviously BUY them their election/re-election.
Anonymous
The Almighty Dollar is the key here. They will not risk losing their funding source to support us.
Frank, Miami Beach
Our community needs to be realistic about how to be effective in reaching our goals politically.
The Democratic Party is our friend; the Republican Party, in nearly all areas of Gay interests, our enemy.
It is wise to support the party that is supportive and works toward gay equality than to abandon it to a party that is hostile to gays. As evidenced by the last 6 years of the Bush regime, we lose big time with the GOP in power.
Bottom line is this: if your party does not win, you basically lose out on having the political power to work toward the issues that matter.
Joseph E. Broderick
The only "major" Dem to come out
in favor off LGBT equality is Sen.
Feingold(D-WI) & in his home state
he has come out in favor of same-sex marriage.
We in the LGBT community must
allign ourselves with our real supp-
orters & one of those is Russ Fein-
gold.
Anonymous
They are a bunch of spineless careerists (with a few notable exceptions) but they are all we've got.
Thomas
Vote for Sen Russ Feingold!! He is the only presidential candidate to support full and equal rights. Being from WI, I can tell you he is also the type of campaigner no one thinks will win and then he does. Get behind Russ now if you really want full equality. Feingold in 2008!!!!
Anonymous
Just look at what Hillary says...
Anonymous
Just look at what Hillary says...
Anonymous
The leading Democrats have no backbone. No one of principle. I can't wait until Gavin Newsom has enough political credentials to run for president! Now there's a man of principle... with a strong backbone!
Anonymous
The leading Democrats have no backbone. No one of principle. I can't wait until Gavin Newsom has enough political credentials to run for president! Now there's a man of principle... with a strong backbone!
Anonymous
That's our fault for trading a king for a president,because currently in England they have a gay rights bill.
Anonymous
I HAVE WRITTEN LETTERS TO THE DEMO NATIONAL PARTY AND TOLD THEM I CONSIDERED THE WHOLE PARTY A WUS AND THAT THEY NEEDED TO TAKE STANDS THAT ARE IN DIFFERENCE TO THE GOP AND TO STOP HOLDING HANDS ON ALL ISSUES. SOMEONE IS NEEDED THAT IS IN TOUCH WITH WHAT IS GOING ON IN THE WORKING CLASS AND HOW TIRED WE ARE OF BEING IGNORED. THEY NEED TO BE A GOOD PUBLIC SPEAKER WITH NO HIDDEN AGENDAS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR ACTION. WE CAN TAKE BACK BOTH HOUSES IF WE REMAIN STRONG. NO FIGHTING AGAINST OPPONENTS IN THE PRIMARIES.
Ryan S.
As far as I can tell, the Democratic party is still stuck on 'We believe in whatever the Republicans don't believe', aka opposite land. As a voter, I feel strangely more compelled to vote for a party that actually believes in something, rather than the opposite of anything. Even then, I don't feel like my voice or story is being accurately represented by the cadidates running for office, which forces me to choose between voting for someone I harshly disagree with, but know at least where they stand; voting for someone who has no particular stance on any given issue; or not voting at all, further contributing to the delapitation of the democratic system. That being said, I don't feel the Democrats are willing to risk bold issues. I hope that 2006 will not produce more John Kerrys who constantly swing from where they stand on issues, but I won't be surprised by any underwhelming victories achieved come November, either.
Anonymous
Feingold for Prez in '08...only one courageous enough to stand up for us.
Anonymous
They say they support us but are too afraid to stand with us because they are afraid that if they do so they won't get re-elected.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party is DEAD! It is good for NOTHING because it stands for NOTHING! COWARDS and BASTARDS!!!!
Anonymous
The Democrat Party has a knack for bilking financially well-off gays for money to finance their campaigns...but it seems as though the only people the Democrats truly support, in the end, are the homophobic black community.
Mary Beth
Have they done so thus far, really? The Democrats know they are the best we've got, so we're stuck voting for them, but what they are these days when so many are afraid to use the word liberal is the lesser of two evils-with very few exceptions. Kerry especially tried so hard to win over the Republicans he was never going to win over anyway, that he sold us out. That hunting trip of his to court the macho vote did him in with me. The only reason I voted for him is that he was running against Bush.
Paul Ellison
I am afraid the Democratic Party may be too timid to support anything significant. LGBT equality is a basic human right that is alreadey being denied.
Anonymous
yes, individuals in the Democratic party will back LGBT issues, but as a party they will not stick their necks out for us. On social issues, they are almost as conservative as the GOP.
Clarence H. Cresong Jr.
If the Democratic Party believes that they can attract more voters simply be mimicking the Republicans, they are sadly mistaken. The fact that the party to which I have been loyal for 25 years can't muster enough backbone to return the kindness and simply do the right thing not only angers me but hurts me. I have not changed my party affiliation yet because I keep hoping that the donkeys will suddenly find their hearts and their souls (as well as their backbones) and stand up for the last minority for whom inequality and discrimination is not only tolerated but encouraged in the name of "moderation" and ugly vote-getting. If true equality for my community makes me a single-issue voter, so be it. I only hope that I can remain a single-issue DEMOCRATIC voter, but I'm not holding my breath!
Gregory Scanlon
The Democratic Party is too timid on almost every issue from Iraq to the deficits, from tax equity to immigration.
They are so afraid to be for something that they have no agenda or any real ideas.
While I could never support the Republican agenda, I wish the Democratic Party would develop a backbone. I would like to see a full and immediate pullout from Iraq, a plan in support of border security followed by a fair immigration plan for the 12 million migrants living here illegally, for a plan to reduce oil dependency and fight global warming, and a plan to fund social security, tax the rich, and reduce the deficits.
A splattering smattering
I think they're doing a good job. Many democratic candidates don't support outright gay marriage, not because they're timid but because they have to get elected before they can make real, legislative strides for gay rights. Let's support the people who support us. We can't afford two more years of a republican-controlled congress, or four more years of a republican executive.
Anonymous
I feel betrayed by many democrats, especially those with the most media attention. First, Bill Clinton you encouraged John Kerry to support the constitutional amendments durimg the election. secondly, Hilliay Clinton for not coming out with full support for gay marriage concidering the majority of her constituants in NY support it.We need alot more vocal support- alot more! The democrats are failing us as well!
Bernie Knollinger
The democratic party only plays up to the gay community in order to get our votes but when it comes right down to supporting gay issues,the democrats cave in to the homophobic rantingsof the christian right. Instead of gays being allowed to serve openly in the military we get "don't ask don't tell" instead of gay marriage we get the defense of marriage act. It's time the gay community held the democratic party accountable for their lackluster performance when it comes to gay rights.
Michael
I no longer consider myself a member of the Democratic Party. Unless the Democratic Party steps up to be counted, and openly supports LGBT equality - including marriage equality, I will sit out the next election. At this point in time, Russ Feingold is the only salvation for the Democratic Party.
Mike - PA
Of course there are instances when the some leaders in the Democratic party go with a candidate that is more moderate on our issues. But I think, by and large, the Democratic Party has been a great supporter of pro-gay candidates.
Questions like this always brings out the Democratic hating Republicans and their counter-part lefties. It's pretty disgusting - especially the attacks on Tammy and Barney - two folks that have continuously put their necks on the line for the community.
I hope all the complainers are all hard workers on election day for their pro-gay candidates - although I sincerely doubt it.
Whitney Douglas-Weddell
It's easier for Republicans to be fashionable bigots, and loud about it, than it is for Democrats to support full equality for LGBTQ people. Pity.
Anonymous
As a former Precinct Chair and Secretary for our county's Dem Executive Committee, and delegate to multiple Texas State Dem Conventions - I can honestly say YES. The Party, especially here in Texas, is full of closet right-wingers and bible thumpers. Even illegal immigrants who are not even citizens get better treatment from the Dems than gay Americans.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party doesnt have a clue about what they support - there is a shocking lack of leadership.
Anonymous
I'm so tired of "psuedo-Dems" who talk a nice talk about GLBT equality, take our money, and then say they aren't for gay marriage. Al Gore gave a nice speech the other day to the HRC about how our love needs to be respected. Nice. But he never came out and said he supports gay marriage. Hillary Clinton has also come out AGAINST gay marriage. Who are the people?! I say "Screw 'em!" They don't need our money. They are a disgrace to the Democratic Party. I know politics isn't always nice, but when is someone going to actually take a stand and show some integrity and REAL comapassion?
Callie
The Democratic Party as a whole? Absolutely! There's the rarity of those like Feingold that actually think we should be considered equal citizens, but the Dem party as a whole runs from us, except when they need votes. Now the big thing is having the Dem party do outreach at Pride events so we can vote in Democratic candidates. What have they done for us? Hillary, Kerry, and Dean all think we should get in a separate line at the clerks office. Homophobic attitudes and actions from Dems like Kaine in VA and Ford in TN are not chastized by the party as a whole. We're not even in their platform anymore. Civil rights, in general, are not mentioned AT ALL! Yet, we're supposed to support them.
Anonymous
I am so fed up with the Democratic Party
David Wesley White
As a out and proud gay man, I feel at home with the Democratic Party. That said, in an overwhelmingly conservative state like Alabama there is a fine line to walk with proudly pronouncing that you are for equality and securing the votes needed to win an election. Thats why it is so important to elect leaders who not only support us, but, are one of us. Patricia Todd is running for the Alabama State Representative seat in District 54[Birmingham]. Her election would push timid support for equality here in Alabama to at least luke warm and would put a wonderful spokesperson forward to defend and protect our rights.
nate
I think the Democrats fear loosing votes by doing this. What they are probably not considering is that if a canidate were to come out strongly for the LGBT community a lot of LGBT people and their friends and family who do not vote would. I think most of these people do not because the choice is usually between 2 canidates who don't seem to care or one who hates us and another who may care, just not quite enough to actually do anything about how we are treated.
Ray Shelton
Democrats can go to hell.
I would rather live with Republicans who hate me openly than with backstabbing Democrats.
When, and only when ALL the major democratic leaders (including all presidential candidates) support gay marriage, will I support them.
And I want an apology from all the Democratic cowards who took our money and votes and abandoned us year after year.
It's called self-respect folks!
Glen Camomile
Scratch a democrat, find a republican.
Anonymous
The democratic party is not a party at all. It is all individuals too scared to stand up for anyone but their own interests. Constituents are left with no representation. No one in the party has the courage to speak up in favor of LGBT equality.
Michael Thomson
I believe we get nothing but lip service from the Democratic Party.
There are a few person's like Russ Feingold, Ted Kennedy, Tammy Baldwin, and Barney Frank that walk the walk and talk the talk. Most Democratic politicians are providing us a lot of lip service in private but failing to act for us in public. I do not put all the blame on them. Our community refuses to get out and vote to support candidates that sahre our views.
Richard_DemInSF
The Dems are a little on the timid side; but then that seems to be a problem within the Party these days no matter what issue is before our lawmakers. The Dems just need to be a little more assertive. It's something of a joke that the Dems have become a bit wimpy.
Anonymous
Yes, just look at the pathetic triangulating record of the CLINTON administration (Don;'t Ask, Don't Tell). Hillary would be just as bad on LGBT issues as Bill was. We need a nominee who will do what is just after eight years of the failed unmoral BUSH administration. If we settle for a timid CLINTON in 2008 we will lose no matter who wins the White House.
Anonymous
Absolutely. However, given the options I feel they are the lesser of two evils. While we may not get full marriage equality with the Dems, at least we won't be pushed further back in the closet.
Paul
While I believe that support for LGBT equality is more individual than party - based I have to acknowledge the reality of political life and survival . Since the San Francisco marriages ( actually since 09 / 11 ) this country has moved appallingly to the right and many politicians ( especialy seasoned ones ) who wish to prevail with the electorate will unfortunately pander to this reality .
Anonymous
The Democratic Party will never openly support LGBT equality because of the fear they have of the Republican Party using it against them. Sad how they can support the rights of immigrants but not citizens of the United States.
Larry
"The only things in the middle of the road are dead armadillos!"
Anonymous
I saw first hand what the national democratic party did to congressional candidate Nancy Boyda from Kansas. Their wanting to run from the marriage question cost her the election and support of the gay community. It is time we hold the democratic party responsable to truly be the LIBERAL VOICE of America.
Don
The Dems need to grow a pair. They use to be the party that stood up for civil rights and minority groups and they have abandoned us for their own political agendas!
bob
The party no
longer knows what it stands for and will blow another open
shot at Congress and the White House as a result. Democrats
are their own worst enemy.
Tony
I think that the Democratic party is too timid to deal with any political issue that is too controversial. They are too timid to speak up because they are afraid to lose the votes of other groups that may disagree with their opinions.
John E. Lazar
The recent decision of Howard Dean to shut down the LGBT laiason office is disconcerting. Is the leadership of the Democratic Party prearing to cut its losses by disassociating from the lgbt community? It could happen!
DANIEL THE SPANIEL
THEY ARE GREEDY CORPORATE WHORES JUST LIKE THE REPIGLICANS-THEY CARE ABOUT VOTES NOT EQUALITY.
EQUALITY OR DEATH!!!
VIVA LOS HOMOS!!!
T. F. Neal
Democrats are being too wishy-washy. When the time comes to stand up for our rights, they back down. Personally, distrust the Democrat's promises as much as I hate the Republicans. They're all the same after all; when it comes down to it, they're all just politicians.
Sarah Cummins
I think the Democratic party is well aware that they could lose swing votes if they run a candidate who is fully behind LGBT equality. If they want to capture Democratic votes within more conservative states, they have to pander to the conservative voters somewhat. I don't excuse this behavior, but I understand the reasoning behind it.
Anonymous
We need the Democratic Party to stand boldly and demand equal rights for all American Citizens. If elected officials say things confidently, people will believe and follow. Bush is wrong most of the time and people still follow him. Imagine the positive change that could occur with people speaking the truth!
Anonymous
The Democratic Party takes the LGBT community for granted because there is no other ploace to go. Of course the are turning their backs on us to get the bigot vote.
Anonymous
The solution is quite simple folks! Vote GREEN!
LETTUCE
yes, but I still identify myself as a democrat over republican; partly because of PRO-CHOICE & they believe in co-habitation with GAYS. Republicans can kiss my ass.
Anonymous
The Democratic Party is too timid to support a position on ANYTHING! GW has supplied Democrates with over five years of no-brainer WMD's and they've yet to load a gun. The best they've done is thrown a few stones now and then.
Anonymous
Yes, Hillary could only dream of winning the electoral votes of states, such as Michigan and Oregon, which passed or will soon pass constitutional amendments, if she were to come out - in favor of gay marriage.
Anonymous
Not only are they weak, but they are liars. Do not be fooled by the Democrats. Just like their Republican counterparts, they say what needs to be said at the time to get the votes or the campaign contributions and then they do what ever they wish. Anyone who thinks outside of the box or thinks ahead of their time is quickly quieted and pushed to the side. I am sure there are plenty of politicians who started out with good intentions (in each party), with ambition, hope, and a real desire to do some good, but they were quickly ruined and corrupted by their party. Basically the only difference between a Republican and a Democrat is a Republican will tell you to your face that they are going to fuck you, do it, and tell you God said they should; while a Democrat will tell you that they would never fuck you and do it any way (with no lube) and tell you the Republicans forced them to.
Brian in Cincinnati
As an Ohioan who was excited about the candidacy of Paul Hackett for the U.S. Senate (even before he announced his support for gay marriage), I am appalled at the way the state Democratic party took the choice out of voters hands by undermining his ability to raise funds for his campaign and making it impossible for him to continue his candidacy. Though there are other issues involved, I believe that his stand in favor of gay equality scared the Ohio Democratic party into believing he was not a viable candidate. Perhaps they were right, and Ohio isn't ready for Hackett's candor, but shouldn't the party have let the voters decide that?
Anonymous
EQUAL FREE SPEECH:
The vast majority of adult Americans see the homosexual sub-culture as sick and the very cancer of natural society. Gay men are sexual deviants and behind the smoke screen people know the real truth. Democrats will always(along with Republicans)protect children from sexual predators!
Anonymous
You get one or two democrats with a back bone, like Feingold, and it seems the bulk of the Democratic leadership spends more time attacking these guys then the Republicans do.
And it's not just gay marriage. it's everything.
Anonymous
Until the Dems stop trying to be pseudo Republicans and return to their true, more liberal blue collar roots, they will not reclaim the Congress or Senate. We need a party who will offer an alternative to the pro big business, anti working man politics of the shitheads currently in power.
Terry
The Democratic party doesn't want to alienate middle America any more than they have to. If they openly support candidates who favor LGBT equality, they'll almost certainly lose the next presidential election. They're not being timid, they're being smart. Believe me, I'm sorry I have to say that!
Anonymous
Shame on the Democrats for allowing themselves to be intimidated by the fascists(Republicans) and the American Taliban! They are showing their true colors.
Anonymous
"The Democrans and Republicrats are flashing their toothy smiles... and Uncle Sam is rigging cock fights in the promised land"
--Ani Difranco, Serpentine
R. G. Pratt
The Democrats have outlived their own usefulness. They do not deserve our loyalty or votes. I now vote only for Greens.
Anonymous
Clearly. The Repulsicans openly advocate discrimination and promote their anti-equality agenda. Meanwhile the Democrats fail miserably in promoting equality and standing up to the bigots.
The only glimmer of hope is Mayor Gavin Newsome. He has more courage than the entire Democratic congressional caucus.
Mike
I believe so, yes. With our current political climate overrun with conservatives perhaps the Democratic Party is afraid to make too many waves. Is it any wonder why so many gay youth do not vote?
Kim
Sadly, it seems that the Democratic Party is too timid to openly support much of anything unless it's something they are certain will be what the majority of the nation wants to hear. Otherwise they just never seem to take much of a real stance on anything.
They do this because they don't want to offend anyone or eliminate anyone as a potential voter, but in fact they are doing exactly that...If we (the democrats) could just show some strength in standing up for things we truly believe in...who knows, maybe democrats and other voters might actually feel inspired to the point of feeling compelled to vote democrat.
Sandy
The democrats don't have the bollocks for anything. They went along with Bush's war in Iraq. They are too cowardly to openly support lgbt equality. There are exceptions but not many.
Doug Marshall-Steele
The Democratic leadership needs to get a pair.
Anonymous
The problem is bigger -- the Democratic Party machine is inarticulate on the issues among themselves and with the public. My $$$ will only go to those who are clear about favoring full equality.
Jeni
Yes, I beleive they are! Even though many people and leaders in the party may favor full equality they know that most of the American electorate still does not take or accept that position. Therefore ,in order to win elections, the party unfortunately, must take positions and support candidates that represent the views and interests of the majority of Americans. Which means, I think, that we, in the " community" ,still have a lot of work to do in educating the people around us as to our existence and presence and that we are no different than anyone else. I think we can start by "coming out" to our families, friends, co-workers,associates etc.?
Mark Orth
With the exception of Russ Feingold, no one in the democratic party is willing to speak out in favor of marriage rights for gays and lesbians. The party has taken the gay vote for granted for so long, that we are an after thought. Gay and lesbian voters need to write to their elected officals and let them know that our vote cannot be counted on without their taking a leadership role in addressing our issues. It is up to us to make political leaders listen.
Anonymous
Democrats, take a stand, any stand!
Dave Cutler
I don't think the Democrats are too timid by a long shot. The Republicans always have a "race to the right" while the Democrats have made sure that GLBT outreach is a key part of their presidential nominee's campaign.
Anonymous
Chickenshit spineless Neocons(democrats)need to grow a backbone before I'll ever support their pitiful corporate ass kissing carcases
Beth
The democratic party is not too timid to support people for some LBGT equality but FULL EQUALITY is a completely different story. It's ok right now in society to say that you are for gay rights as long as you dont reflect that in the polling booth or dont voice that as a candidate for office. The small percentage of conservatives that are the loudest have taken over simply because we as liberals are unorganized. They have capitalized on the little shread of fear in everyone in the past with races and sexes and now they are on to us.
Beth
The democratic party is not too timid to support people for some LBGT equality but FULL EQUALITY is a completely different story. It's ok right now in society to say that you are for gay rights as long as you dont reflect that in the polling booth or dont voice that as a candidate for office. The small percentage of conservatives that are the loudest have taken over simply because we as liberals are unorganized. They have capitalized on the little shread of fear in everyone in the past with races and sexes and now they are on to us.
Tealster
For far too long, there has been little to distinguish the two major parties from each other. Neither party is willing to risk telling the right-wing fanatics that they have it all wrong and that they do not represent either America or the religion so often cited as the reason for engraving discrimination into the laws of the land.
The Democratic Party must step forward and distinguish itself as representing ALL the citizens of this country. It should cement itself to strong support of a fair social safety net, while holding true to fiscal discipline for the sake of our children.
The Democratic Party may lose a few votes here and there, but it will be embraced by a strong base of true Americans who believe in "liberty and justice for ALL."
Anonymous
As with previous civil rights movements, the progress is uneven. The national level party may not have reached the point of open support, but it isn't far off.
The Democratic Party is already openly attacked by the right for its current level of support for gay rights and candidates.
Bill in R.C.
I am a democrat who is ready to change parties. It is very dis- heartening to hear your represen-tatives say that the GLBT com- munity caused John Kerry to lose in 04. Sen Feinstein is a perfect example of being too timid to sup-port our community when we need it most. I do support Barney Frank and Tammy Baldwin in their re-election campaigns.
Steve-Iowa
Support for the LGBT community must be written into the party's platform, just like the anti-LGBT platform that's specified in the Republican platform.
Anonymous
Yes. The Democrats are far too timid regarding every subject. They are too wishy-washy. I consider myself a Democrat and am ashamed of my party's lack of support for LGBT Americans.
Vincent Ryan
The ad is offensive. Effeminate gay men are a normal part of life. No more or less. To suggest that one might be punished with such a fate is offensive. Not to mention that the stereotype is way off. What gay man would wear a sweater around the shoulders without giggling for a week at least. I know we did this in eighties but that was a long time ago. Chrysler is paying for some very poor and very old marketing advice and clearly that have no interest in the LGBT community. Maybe one day they will make a car worth buying so that we can boycott them.
Anonymous
I'm afraid so. The right-wing theofascists have I think, made it dificult for even moderates to support gay marriage, etc. Where did we go wrong???
John Fiske
Yes. Sillary Clinton is a prefect example. Separate but equal is not equal, and she knows that.
But her movitves.......... what's most important? The greater good or a family legacy. In either party?
Frank Golembieski
The Democrats seem to have taken a stand that won't upset the right wing Republicans so as not to rock the boat. The Republicans are actively trying to sink the Civil Rights boat anyway, so it doesn't really matter, if we rock it or not, so lets go down rocking!!
Anonymous
Generally speaking the Dems ARE to chickensh_t to come right out and advocate full and total legal quality, right now.. the shame of it is they are still the best choice we have to move forward, but any of the brave or foolhardy repubs that come out in support of lgbt equality ( and sexual freedom ) deserve our support to. just dont try to convince me the repub party as a whole has anything to offer us but wiretaps, record budget deficits, suppression of free speach and privacy right. Sort of like the timid "christians" who let falwells and dobson hijack their religion
Anonymous
Like all political parties, the Dems are a weak reed. They will support us when convenient and abandon us when not.
There are not enough of us to have our own party, so we should cultivate BOTH major parties assiduously. We need friends on both sides of the aisle.
W. Rogers RN (ret.)
Yes, but it's the only viable alternative at the moment, and certainly beats the GOP (which has become the home of the 'religious" "right"). Sadly, the Dems, and Repubs are the only games in town that have a realistic shot at Congress and the White House. Though I am an Independent, I would vote primarily democratic just as the lesser of two evils. There's too much at stake for us right now to waste our votes on all the other partys, Green, Libertarian etc. WAY too much at stake. VOTE DEMOCRATIC ( unless of course, said Dem is a liar or homohater- and they are there).
Anonymous
If the Democratic Party intends to take back congress this November, they will need to do it without my vote or help. Unless and until they find their backbone again, and openly and agressively support LGBT rights, I am going to sit out the next election. Russell Feingold is the ONLY Democrat wiling to speak out clearly on the issues facing our country.
Marlon Garren
The Democrats are a weak and hypocritical party. It's waaaaaaaay past time to stand up to the religious political extremists of the right. If the democrats wont support full and unconditional equal rights for everyone, then they dont deserve our vote.
Angelica
Not too timid- but too moral. There are still a lot of Democrats who don't think LGBT "rights" are important. After all, not all Democrats think that "anything goes" and that all moral issues are relative. Some democrats just want higher taxes and a government healthcare plan. LGBT people are equal in every way, as long as they don't bring their sexual tendencies into other issues- they can vote, they have free speech, etc. They just don't get the government's blessings for behaviors many people find questionable, if not outright immoral. Even Democrats.
Sean
The Democratic Party is too preoccupied in pleasing everybody than to take a decisive stance on the issue. I say fuck the religious right and those who have a problem with it! They're all going to vote Republican anyway, so who cares if the Dems piss them off.
Kenneth Paulsen
If we were a parliamentary democracy with a viable left third party, that is where I would look to be voting.
Anonymous
While Republicans run towards their core constituents; Democrats run away from their own core. That's why Democrats are called spineless and lacking in convictions.
David Owen
They just want our money but don't support our civil rights.
Cindy
I wouldn't say timid as much as doing what seems to be politically wise at the time, at least in their way of thinking. They're trying to appeal to independent and undecided voters, especially Republicans, and they know they'll never sway them over to the Dem side as long as they appear to be in favor of gay & lesbian rights. It's a shame we're turning back the other direction, but politicians will always do what's in THEIR best interests, not the people's.
April 6, 2009
Porn
Do you pay for
porn?
March 4, 2009
Gay Rights
Legislation
Do you feel more
optimistic about the prospects for gay rights
legislation than you did last year?
February 2, 2009
Matthew
Mitcham
Do you think
Matthew Mitcham's sexual orientation hurts his endorsement
chances?
January 5, 2009
PrEP
Are you -- or is
someone you know -- using PrEP (pre-exposure
prophylaxis)?
December 3, 2008
Prop. 8
Should Prop. 8 be
overturned through the courts or at the polls?
November 19, 2008
Pride and
Prejudice
Is gay the new
black?
November 6, 2008
The Economy
Are you afraid of
losing your job?
October 22, 2008
Harvey Milk
Has there been a
gay leader comparable to Harvey Milk since Milk's
death?
October 9, 2008
International LGBT Rights
Do you
think the next U.S. president will champion LGBT rights on
the international stage?
September 24, 2008
The High Cost of
Being Gay
Can you
afford to be gay?
September 10, 2008
Job
Stability
Do you think the
company you work for is financially sound?
August 28, 2008
Proposition
8
Is the defeat of
California's Prop. 8 worth it if Arizona's antigay Prop.
102 passes?
August 13, 2008
A Gay
President
When do you
think the U.S. will elect a gay president?
July 30, 2008
Jesse Helms
Do you
think Jesse Helms's style of bigotry will work in politics
anymore?
July 16, 2008
Obama and
Faith
Do you
support Barack Obama's plan to give federal money to
faith-based charities if LGBT-friendly programs get equal
access to it?
July 2, 2008
Silver
Foxes
Do you find gray
hair sexy?
June 19, 2008
It Takes a
Village
Is Your Family a
Village?
June 4, 2008
California
Weddings
Do you plan
on getting married in California?
May 7, 2008
Religion
Do you still
practice the same religion your family did when you were
growing up?
April 23, 2008
Thomas
Beatie
Did Thomas
Beatie's going public with his pregnancy hurt the
transgender movement?
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