Sarah Palin: Diva for Gay Republicans?
I’ve always defined a diva as a strong, confident woman who commands the respect of men, the type of woman we gay men love.
Watching the Alaska Governor address the crowd in Denver earlier today, I was captivated. Sarah Palin held up well in her first appearance on the national political stage. Not only did she sound good, but she looked good. This lady has style. I mean, you gotta love a politician whose hair reminds you of Audrey Hepburn.
I think she does a lot for the GOP. She’s “playing well with Hillary supporters.” Watching CNN while at the gym, I heard (well, actually read the close-captioning of) an evangelical recounting how excited how many of his colleagues are about the choice.
Michael Barone says she’ll be “Welcomed by Social and Economic Conservatives:”
Palin is a strong advocate of Second Amendment rights (a lifetime NRA member) and of oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (will she change McCain’s mind on this?). Cultural conservatives have no basis for objecting to her. Neither, I would think, do economic conservatives. She supported Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell in his primary race against 35-year House incumbent Don Young, father of the “Bridge to Nowhere.”
Her (and her husband’s) blue collar background will help her with those Hillary supporters, those “Reagan Democrats,” wary of their party’s nominee.
As a Governor, she took on special interests and fought corruption, doing more to reform her state’s government in her short time as chief executive of Alaska than Barack Obama has in twice that time in the United States Senate. This pick reinforces McCain’s image as a maverick and, as I wrote earlier today, helps undercut “the Democratic attempt to tie our man to George W. Bush.“
Sarah Palin is anything but a Bush Republican.
And we gay Republicans have something to cheer in her record. Shortly after taking office, she vetoed legislation that would have prevented the state from providing benefits to the same-sex partners of state employees.
UPDATE: I wonder if it was this pick which motivated me to make a modest contribution to the McCain-Palin campaign. I encourage you to do so as well.
UPDATE from Bruce (GayPatriot): I can’t believe I am going to give money to the McCain campaign, but as Dan does above — I urge you to do so as well. This commenter at The Corner sums up how I feel today.
Toss me in as another Republican who’s ecstatic about this pick and who’s writing a check. I teared up as I watched the speech given by Gov. Palin. I haven’t been this proud to be a Republican in far too long a time. I am proud we have a bona fide American hero running for president who has the political chops to miraculously energize his base and sucker punch the opposition at the same time.
Unbelievable. Now where’s my credit card…
UP-UPDATE: The folks at one of my favorite blogs, Powerline, were perhaps he most disappointed of the conservative bloggers at the Palin selection. In their latest post, Scott Johnson writes:
Judging by our email, Governor Palin’s selection has electrified conservatives. I think this is in part because of the way she is living out the prolife credo. She sets a powerful and inspiring example. In part the excitement also derives from her stands against the corruption that has tarnished the Republican Party. It seemed unlikely that McCain’s vice presidential selection would at the same time excite party regulars and serve to attract independents, but it may well do so.
As testimony to that electrification, I reference Bruce’s update above. 
UP-UP-UPDATE: Check below the “jump” for more commentary on this choice:Hugh notes that conservatives are happy with the pick. And why? Perhaps, because, as John J. Miler says the Alaska Governor is “possibly the one choice that can be described as both conservative and maverick.”
Victor Davis Hanson says one thing a lot of conservatives have been saying:
In a Zen way it raises the inexperience issue, inviting Obama to critique a fresh VP as “inexperienced” and thereby automatically turn the same scrutiny to his as-thin-or-even-thinner resume for the more important job.
Read the whole thing.
Andy McCarthy is one of many conservatives who have become enthusiastic about McCain’s candidacy now that the presumptive Republican nominee has tapped Sarah Palin as his running mate:
It also shows that he does care about the future of the party after McCain, which I doubted. Today, I go from from an ambivalent McCain supporter driven more by fear of Obama to someone who can feel good about the prospects of a McCain administration. If there are a few million more like me, maybe the all-important undercard of Senate and House races won’t turn out as badly as some experts are predicting.
Once again, read the whole thing!
It’s bizarre to watch Obama supporters, on this blog and elsewhere, try to knock her alleged lack of experience. One question for you lefties: Who presently commands troops, or has ever commanded troops? Hint: If you said “Obama”, you’re wrong. If you said “Palin”, you’re right. Palin is more qualified to be President than Obama.
Here is some video of her appearance today with McCain:
http://video.on.nytimes.com/?fr_story=3d27a21f36b20046410a52207dc62dcfc93df080
I agree Dan, she is captivating speaker and a dynamic addition to your party’s ticket.
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 29, 2008 @ 5:31 pm - August 29, 2008
(P.S., and the she-commands-troops plays into the diva thing)
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 29, 2008 @ 5:32 pm - August 29, 2008
(and for the slow kids, you know who you are: I’m talking Alaska National Guard)
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 29, 2008 @ 5:33 pm - August 29, 2008
(who share a military border with Russia)
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 29, 2008 @ 5:34 pm - August 29, 2008
I am SOOOOSOOOO excited about this lady… she looks, sounds, acts, and represents eveything that I like in a leader.
and not one um or ah in her acceptance announcement!
GO RIGHT AMERICA!
Comment by EDinTampa — August 29, 2008 @ 5:59 pm - August 29, 2008
I haven’t been so excited in a long time!! Everyone on the right is excited! This has really brought the party together.
She sure is a Diva, and a smart woman to boot. Married a very cute guy who has no problem taking care of the kids. He won’t be out chasing other skirts like good ol’ Bill, he has the best woman possible right at home. He just better share her with us in the White House.
Comment by Leah — August 29, 2008 @ 6:29 pm - August 29, 2008
I’m still trying to figure out why any gay person should be excited about her.
Here’s what the Baptist Press said about her stance on gay issues:
“Besides supporting the same-sex-marriage ban, she also said, during her 2006 campaign, that she disapproved a recent Alaska Supreme Court ruling that the state had to provide spousal benefits to same-sex partners of government employees.
While Palin later signed legislation that enforced the decision, she said she would support a ballot initiative that would effectively overturn the court ruling by banning gay spouses from state benefits.”
Are LCR bars set so low that this is what passes as progress for our community?
Comment by Troy — August 29, 2008 @ 6:43 pm - August 29, 2008
My Thai wife wants to vote twice. heh. After ignoring all the GOP requests for $$, I will be getting out the $$$$ for McCain now. btw, We live in Ninilchik, Alaska & I have a great pic of her at Fuanglada Blog. I think even you guys who like guys will appreciate it. Also, tomorrow I will get out a post on why ALL Feminists should switch to McCain/Palin. Composing it now. GL & Semper Fi
Comment by toes192 — August 29, 2008 @ 6:46 pm - August 29, 2008
Seven hours later, and I’m still on cloud nine!
Semper fi, Sarah (my latest crush)
P.S. Her hubby’s a cutie, too.
Comment by Julie the Jarhead — August 29, 2008 @ 7:08 pm - August 29, 2008
If Palin wins, does that mean she will technically outrank Pelosi? Because that would be freakin’ sweet.
Comment by V the K — August 29, 2008 @ 7:11 pm - August 29, 2008
I’m still trying to figure out why any gay person should be excited about her.
Because she’s a smart, tough, and compassionate person with a real life, a family, and a track record of fighting and taking down government criminals and corruption.
Instead, you expect us to be excited about a naif of a politico who bathed in and supported one of the most corrupt and wasteful political machines in the country, attended a church and ran in circles in which racism was the primary theological tenet, and who changes his beliefs more often than he does his underwear — all because you claim he’s more “pro-gay”.
The degree of narcissism inherent in the gay left never ceases to amaze me. Earlier today, Troy, we had one of your fellow gay Democrats openly hoping a deadly hurricane hit the United States because he thought it could be milked for political advantage.
How, exactly, do you people rationalize that?
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 29, 2008 @ 7:36 pm - August 29, 2008
I haven’t posted here in quite some time. I am a New York Log Cabin member who is so excited by this selection. I had already donated money to the McCain campaign, but after this selection, I am ready to donate again. And this is on a prosecutor’s salary. I cannot get enough of Sarah Palin. She has excited me for this election in a way that I had not been before. Now that I know that she is also a friend to the gay community (well, at least no enemy), I am particularly thrilled. Her story is quite moving. Way to go John McCain. Great pick.
Comment by Stephen — August 29, 2008 @ 7:37 pm - August 29, 2008
Oh, and Troy, here’s the latest from your fellow Democrats and Obama supporters: Sarah Palin’s baby isn’t really hers and she’s just covering up for her daughter.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 29, 2008 @ 8:01 pm - August 29, 2008
I think this is a great choice and does advance the cause of equality for all people. Sarah Palin is not a traditional conservative, represents a non-mainstream and open-minded state, is married to an Inuit (who is blue collar) and has shown to be supportive of gay rights issues as Governor. What’s not to like? She looks a lot better than Joe Biden as well.
Comment by Scott — August 29, 2008 @ 8:14 pm - August 29, 2008
I’m still trying to figure out why any gay person should be excited about her.
Does opposing same-sex marriage make one anti-gay? I’ve read that, other than marriage, that she’s friendly to gay issues. I don’t see McCain or Palin doing much to advance the FMA and that may be the best we can hope for this time round.
Do I agree with her on marriage? No. But there are some big and immediate issues facing this country and marriage isn’t one of them (at least for the White House).
But on national defense, taxes and spending, gun rights, abortion, and (hopefully) immigration, McCain/Palin are more in line with my beliefs. And I don’t think Obama/Biden are qualified and they certainly don’t reflect many of my beliefs.
http://www.washblade.com/2008/2-29/view/columns/12143.cfm
Comment by Robert — August 29, 2008 @ 8:15 pm - August 29, 2008
Robert - ditto, except I’m more skeptical on immigration and still hate McCain-Feingold.
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 29, 2008 @ 8:21 pm - August 29, 2008
Of all the unjustified criticism Palin will receive, the worst (but also the easiest to shut down) will come from die-hard, bitter feminists. I’m already noticing these useless hags commenting on the blogs by calling Palin a “beauty queen” who “sells out women’s rights.” I plan to call these ignorant harpies on the carpet whenever possible. They call themselves feminists but they don’t give a rip about women. Only liberal women count and women are only allowed to have one set of political views. Women can only “choose” to be leftists, or they are viciously trashed. They are incapable of simply disagreeing with Palin’s views, but recognizing the historic fact that it is only the second time a woman has a shot at the second-highest office in the land. They are also too angry and bitter to recognize that it’s within the realm of possibility that Palin may someday be the first female President in history. But Palin apparently doesn’t have the right to “choose” her own path and feminists can’t stand that they can’t control conservative women. They have become the oppressive patriarchal mob they claim to be fighting against. Being in favor of abortion on demand, anti-American and in the Democratic Party is the new “barefoot, pregnant and in the kitchen.”
Comment by Sean A — August 29, 2008 @ 9:51 pm - August 29, 2008
Think about this: that ‘beauty queen’ took on an inbred corrupt old boys’ club headed by the very powerful Stevens and Murkowski and Young… and she won!!!
Did you see that Dayton speech? McCain was sweetly protective and a little condescending to her at the beginning… and then she just took it away, she just made one helluva speech.
And Alaska lies between Russia and the USA’s largest trading partner; it is a major energy producer; and Governor Palin just signed a bill to build a gas pipeline from Alaska through Canada to the lower 48.
I totally love her!!!
Comment by Heather — August 29, 2008 @ 10:31 pm - August 29, 2008
I really like Palin, the more I read up on her the more I liked the style of politican she is. I think she will compliment and show that McCain is serious about a reform agenda in Washington which is more than what Obama’s pick says about him.
I just really hope the campaign and the convention will help to diffuse the experience issue and really get her ready for the Biden debate. I am only worried about the Dems being able to make her into some weak and unready woman.
This definitely makes me happy to vote for McCain/Palin…so Good, get to vote for a woman in the end afterall.
Comment by Darkeyedresolve — August 29, 2008 @ 10:43 pm - August 29, 2008
Dan, she didn’t do this willingly. She did this because she had no choice. The State Supreme Court had already ruled the law unconstitutional. She personally went on record as supporting the denial of health and hospital benefits to Gay couples but argued she had no choice in the matter — especially after her AG chimed in.
Oh, and she’s a Creationist / Intelligent Design proponent. Pretty much the last person you want in a position to influence Educational Policy.
Comment by Jody — August 29, 2008 @ 11:04 pm - August 29, 2008
#20 - Jody, please explain how a VP can affect education policies when it is the President who (with the advice and consent of the Senate) picks the Education Secretary?
To put it more down to your level: how did having Algore as VP affect Clinton’s choice for Education Secretary?
Checkmate.
Regards,
Peter H.
PS - Say hi to Buffy and Mr. French for us as well.
Comment by Peter Hughes — August 29, 2008 @ 11:49 pm - August 29, 2008
If they don’t teach Obamationism or Global Warmism, they should be handed their shovel and sent to Siberia.
Comment by ThatGayConservative — August 29, 2008 @ 11:56 pm - August 29, 2008
I understand that the Left is in panic-mode, but throwing out garbage like this creationism charge only makes you guys look bad when it’s debunked in record time:
http://hotair.com/archives/2008/08/29/heart-ache-palin-wants-creationism-taught-in-public-schools/
Comment by John — August 30, 2008 @ 12:01 am - August 30, 2008
You have brought up one of my main concerns in life:
I believe legistation should be introduced to recognize that ALL Americans married or single have the right and freedom to declare their benefits beneficiary of choice without penalties.
How is it justice that married Americans have this basic right over single Americans?
To me it is not really a question of marriage. It is a basic human and American right to have the FREEDOM to be single and to declare my beneficiary of choice!!!
Comment by Marty Morales — August 30, 2008 @ 12:30 am - August 30, 2008
Well, Marty, thanks to the Pension Protection Act of 2006, you now have the legal right to declare a beneficiary for your retirement accounts who can receive the remaining amounts in them, tax-free.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 3:20 am - August 30, 2008
Jody, please explain how a VP can affect education policies when it is the President who (with the advice and consent of the Senate) picks the Education Secretary
Considering Cheney’s role in affecting policies on Energy, FISA, Terrorism, and Hunting Safety, I think that would’ve been pretty obvious.
Oh, Buffy and Mr. French are dead. I killed them. ‘Course that was a decades ago. About the same time your jab was original.
I understand that the Left is in panic-mode…
Nah. The Palin choice keeps things interesting between now and November. It made things fun today and is bound to keep things fun in the weeks ahead.
…debunked in record time:
Lol. There aren’t theories out there. There’s one, supported by the evidence. ID is Creationism in a cheap, ill fitting suit. That she doesn’t understand that is one of those reasons she has no business being in a position to influence Education policy.
Then again, that fact that she doesn’t understand that was one of the reason she was picked.
Comment by Jody — August 30, 2008 @ 4:38 am - August 30, 2008
She’s a right-wing Republican. She’s against same-sax marriages. It was the Alaska Supreme Court which forced her to sign a pro-gay implementation. She “opposes same-sex marriage, but complied with an Alaskan state Supreme Court order and signed an implementation of same-sex benefits into law, stating that legal options to avoid doing so had run out. She supported a non-binding referendum for a constitutional amendment to deny benefits to homosexual couples” (from Wikipedia)
Comment by mildareveno — August 30, 2008 @ 6:25 am - August 30, 2008
North Dallas Thirty,
I do realize retirement plans allow for this, but I believe we should introduce a Beneficiary Union legislation to afford all Americans the right to declare a beneficary of choice for medical, dentail, vision.
I’m not talking about a beneficiary of Civil Unions or Marriage. I mean a beneficary of choice, which could be my mother, father, brother, sister, daughter or son (over the age of 18), friend, and yes even a lover.
If I care enought to make someone my beneficary why should it matter if I’m married or single? Why should married Americans have greater rights than single Americans?
I also realize such legislation would require employers to insure more people, but again if I’m willing to pay for it why should it matter if I’m married or single?
Comment by Marty Morales — August 30, 2008 @ 8:45 am - August 30, 2008
Just to set the record straight, Palin was quoted as saying the only reason she did not fight the granting of same sex benefits in Alaska was because “all other options had expired”. She did it because she had no other choice. This woman is NOT a good thing for the gay community. I for one, am a Republican who will be voting for Obama, and proudly so! But that’s OK folks, the rest of the gay community forgives you. I am sure there were a few Jews who supported Hitler in the early days too!
Comment by Bryan — August 30, 2008 @ 11:22 am - August 30, 2008
Vile Sarah Palin is an inexperienced, gay hater who kills animals in her spare time…
Shocks me to my core that such a regressed, anti-human rights, un-evolved American would even be considered for any office? Plus, she is anti-green, and does not believe in global warming.
Teaching creationism in schools is barbaric, Religious fanatics should never be allowed to govern anything or anyone!!!
Also, Peter H. (” 21) you are an idiot. Say hello to Satan for me, when you arrive in HELL! Since all you repugnant, nasty Christians believe in him as well!
Comment by LionM — August 30, 2008 @ 12:00 pm - August 30, 2008
Vile Sarah Palin is an inexperienced, gay hater who kills animals in her spare time…
Shocks me to my core that such a regressed, anti-human rights, un-evolved American would even be considered for any office? Plus, she is anti-green, and does not believe in global warming.
Teaching creationism in schools is barbaric, Religious fanatics should never be allowed to govern anything or anyone!!!
Comment by LionM — August 30, 2008 @ 12:01 pm - August 30, 2008
I feel for conservatives, you’ve been waiting for a smart politician that can keep their hands to themselves (and keep their feet to themselves in public washrooms) for a LONG time. I feel for you, I really do. I would be longing for something good if bush had been the head of my party, too. But this woman is of little substance. And for true conservatives she is a total wash-out. She is anti-abortion and pro-”Creationism”. Correct me if I’m wrong but aren’t republicans supposed to be focused on fiscal matters and against tampering with our personal rights? This woman wants to insert her control all over our lives. You should do some serious research before you start getting down on your hands and knees for you ( they way john mccain got down on his knees for the religious Reich when he picked his running mate). And keep in mind she is VERY anti gay, anti gay support, she has voted time and again against allowing state employees extending their benefits to their partners, even for straight people that are not married. When you grovel at her feet keep it short and sweet because she’s liable to kick your teeth down your throat. But yeah, vote for her because she reminds you of Audry Hepburn. Great idea fellas.
Comment by Snottyboy — August 30, 2008 @ 12:11 pm - August 30, 2008
North Dallas Thirty,
Spare me your self-righteous “you people” rhetoric and don’t even get me started on all of the radical toilet spuds the right has tossed out there about Obama for the last 18 months.
I asked a valid question and you gave me your answer, which is basically, correct me if I’m wrong, that other Republican policy positions matter more to you than equality for families like mine. Whatever, I just don’t buy the LCR PR that she is moderate on gay issues yet, and I’m still waiting on evidence that she is.
Scott asks: Does opposing same-sex marriage make one anti-gay? I’ve read that, other than marriage, that she’s friendly to gay issues.
Does opposing equal access to a water fountain based on race make one racist? In my mind it does, but it doesn’t really matter to me what she thinks. It’s what she does, and I’d really like to know what sources there are for how she is friendly on other gay issues. I’ve been poking around, and I can’t find any. So if you can cut and paste a helpful link, I’ll happily take a look.
Please don’t misunderstand me. I lean toward the middle on fiscal, energy, and education policies. I actually LOOK for opportunities to get excited about Republican candidates who are gay-friendly because I think change will happen faster that way.
But I can’t throw my family under the bus, and to me that’s what settling for people simply because they aren’t chasing down FMA (at the moment) but who still will appoint more Scalias to SCOTUS feels like.
Everyone simply must vote their conscious, and if you think she adds to the ticket enough of what you want for the future, then by all means campaign away for them. I don’t question that she might fit your frame of reference for what is needed in terms of the economy and energy, etc. And in your opinion maybe that is enough protection for your family. I just wanted to know how she was “moderate” on gay issues as LCR has described her.
Comment by Troy — August 30, 2008 @ 12:11 pm - August 30, 2008
Troy, your words are belied by the fact that gay Democrats like yourself have, by your definition, “thrown your families under the bus” — over and over and over again.
What that nicely demonstrates, Troy, is that you’re merely using “gay rights” as PR spin for the leftist Democrat policies you prefer, and are more than willing to ditch them if it will help your leftist Democrat masters get elected.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 1:17 pm - August 30, 2008
Troy, your words are belied by the fact that gay Democrats like yourself have, by your definition, “thrown your families under the bus” — over and over and over again.
What should we call someone who whines about being against “equality” when it comes to Republicans, but fully endorses and supports his Democrat masters doing exactly the same thing as “pro-gay” and “gay-supportive”?
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 1:19 pm - August 30, 2008
Gay Republicans. You know, you say to yourself, OK, maybe I’ll give these guys a chance and see if they make any sense at all as a group. Then, you get three lines in to a swoon over Sarah Palin, and there’s a comparison to Audrey Hepburn?!
As Gail Collins aptly notes, the Republican assumption that women will flock to Palin because they have the same “interior plumbing” is insulting and wrong. It seems that being gay isn’t the sort of thing that can act as glue in and of itself. I can’t think what I have in common with people who can’t see that, while Ms. Hepburn was the very embodiment of class and worldliness, Ms. Palin embodies qualities entirely different. I’ll give you one thing - she’s entertaining…
…in the way that television bloopers are entertaining. As a potential VP, Sarah Palin is positively terrifying. And I haven’t even mentioned here low view of we LGBTQ folks. Self-loathing, anyone?
Comment by Billy — August 30, 2008 @ 1:50 pm - August 30, 2008
Ordered my McCain-Palin t-shirt within minutes of hearing of her selection.
Comment by Jeremayakovka — August 30, 2008 @ 1:53 pm - August 30, 2008
But I can’t throw my family under the bus
Why not? You seem to do it every election cycle on the command of the Democrats.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 2:19 pm - August 30, 2008
Instead, you expect us to be excited about a naif of a politico who bathed in and supported one of the most corrupt and wasteful political machines in the country, attended a church and ran in circles in which racism was the primary theological tenet, and who changes his beliefs more often than he does his underwear — all because you claim he’s more “pro-gay”.
Second that!
I’m not on board with the Palin pick yet - there are things really I like and things I don’t. But she seems much willing to challenge the status que than Obama, who, instead of challenging the Rev. Wrights and Bill Ayers of the world, cozies up to them in order to advance to the next level. It’s a type of laziness, hidden behind a shimmering and magnetic personality.
Comment by sonicfrog — August 30, 2008 @ 2:21 pm - August 30, 2008
Billy, perhaps you’re not aware of it, but your insistence that gays who do not automatically vote Democrat are “self-loathing” contradicts your insistence that it is “insulting” to believe that all women would automatically vote for Sarah Palin.
Or, put differently, you oppose identity politics — except when you’re practicing them.
My favorite example of the week has been Emil Jones, Barack Obama’s political mentor, insisting that black Democrats who supported Hillary Clinton were “Uncle Toms”. Of course, the rejoinder was even better — “Emil works with white politicians, so we all know who the Uncle Tom is”.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 2:22 pm - August 30, 2008
First, since I didn’t see anyone else say it, welcome back Stephen. i know Dan and Bruce have had disagreements with LCR as a whole in the past, but I don’t know the organization enough.
Amazing the bile put across by people upset at the nomination.
I’d like to point out that FighttheSmears.com apparently supports Sarah Palin’s stance on domestic partnerships. Though they apparently feel that it is worh hiding their point of origin from the average web user (HT LGF>
http://littlegreenfootballs.com/article/31096_Obama_Campaign_Behind_Anti-Palin_Smear_Site (Sorry, don’t know how to imbed links in the comments)
Time has a good link too http://www.time.com/time/printout/0,8816,1837536,00.html
The ‘creationist in schools’ is debunked here http://dwb.adn.com/news/politics/elections/story/8347904p-8243554c.html (again, thanks LGF)
mildarevno, Wiki is a notably unreliable source when it comes to political figures.
Marty, that’s an interesting idea, though I don’t think the Government should force any company to do it. My employer offers benefits to same (and oposite sex) domestic partners. I’m taking advantage of that now. Her premiums are considered income for me, but hey, it’s a non-traditional set up that allows me to cover someone important to me as a domestic partner.
LionM is beyond parody. Though that he’s fighting for a terrorist associating, lying, woman hating, America hating coward explains a lot.
Troy, I’d ask you to provide evidence of these ‘turds’ that you accuse the right of throwing, but that would require you to, well, do work. If you want more ‘foreign government influencing our law’ judges like Ginsberg, knock yourself out. When they look to Muslim law for their influences, I’ll take cold comfort that I can laugh at you while we’re waiting together be shot in the hockey field.
Billy, I think I understand you now.
You’re a Gay Man. Bruce, Peter, Dan, John and others who post here are people, who are gay. They don’t define their existance by their orientation anymore than I look at myself as a ‘Straght man’ it’s part of them, not all of them.
Senator Barak Obama = Black Man, good for the dems to fill their colour wheel.
Sarah Palin = Fisical social conservative, responsive to her constituants, right on guns and religion, right on gays, right on family. Oh yeah, she is a woman isn’t she?
I’ll now wait for the spam filter…
Comment by The Livewire — August 30, 2008 @ 2:36 pm - August 30, 2008
Thanks, Livewire, for being evenhanded, but don’t pretend to know me. I have never owned a rainbow flag, and never will. I put country first. Being gay is just a part of me, and a small one at that - I am an American. And because it is just a part of me, like sexuality is just a part of anyone, I resent politicians who let such a relatively nothing issue become a moral wedge between us. As long as this minor part of us is continued to be used as a justification to categorize us and treat us differently, we have to speak up about it, and challenge those who will continue to treat us differently - LIKE SARAH PALIN. The point of equality is that it puts non-issues in their proper place. Is that too much to hope for? But more importantly, it worries me that gay people, gay men especially, find her stance on gay rights attractive, regardless of how unattractive it actually is (and trust me, I disagree with her on just about everything else to be sure - I’m thoroughly liberal). On the extremely off-chance that a McCain presidency would do anything good for LGBT people, and I have no reason to believe that it would, I would like to think that gay people can look beyond their self-interest and to the interests of society as a whole. While it would seem that Democrats are the obvious pick on a simple self-interest analysis (and they could certainly be better, in my mind), their vision of what it takes to make America a better place for everyone is far superior to the Republican vision in my mind.
Y’all probably think I’m crazy, and I think y’all are crazy, but I think we can all agree that we want America to be a better place, right? Right?
Here’s to a good, civil battle for the White House!
Comment by Billy — August 30, 2008 @ 3:31 pm - August 30, 2008
WOW! I was told about you gay Republicans but, I honestly did not believe you existed! Gays voting for the group of people who hate them the most! What a bunch of idiots. That is like Jews voting for Hitler. I know people from Alaska and I know all about Palin. You homosexuals are on the top of her hate list. If you think for one second she will help you in any way you are insane. I personally don’t want gays to get married so I am happy for your support. You all helped Bush get in and look at the wonderful things he did for you. Are you sure that the leaders of your group are gay? I just don’t understand how one could vote for the people who really, really, hate them.
Comment by Child of God — August 30, 2008 @ 3:33 pm - August 30, 2008
Oh, and Livewire, I missed your comment earlier to Troy about “taking cold comfort that I can laugh at you while we’re waiting together to be shot in the hockey field.” While this is disturbing in and of itself, now that I’ve seen it, I feel like I can take a stab at pretending to know you: You’re xenophobic, and your worldview is defined by isolationism and fear. And if you’re willing to write off all things Muslim or “un-American” (whatever that is), I guess you can’t really hold it against certain people for writing off all things gay, can you?
Try opening your mind. Start from the assumption that people - ALL people - are good. You’ll be surprised what can come from that. Just sayin’.
Comment by Billy — August 30, 2008 @ 3:41 pm - August 30, 2008
I will on one condition. You walk down Gratiot Avenue in Detroit at midnight yelling, “Oh, my, what am I going to do with all this lottery cash?” for at least one hour… so we can test this “ALL People are good” hypothesis.
Comment by V the K — August 30, 2008 @ 3:49 pm - August 30, 2008
Billy billy billy…
As much as I like V the K’s reply, I’ll have to ad my own.
My comment is based on Justices of the Thomas/Scalia/Roberts/Alito mold look to the constitution as an inanimate document (as Justice Thomas once said) rather than looking to outside sources for inspiration.
You might look at it as well and good that they look to Denmark for laws on gay relationships. You won’t look at it as so great if they look to Saudi Arabia.
Or maybe you’d like to test the ‘inherint good’ by asking Imadinnerjacket for a date. Or more locally try Fred Phelps (D-Hell)
Comment by The Livewire — August 30, 2008 @ 4:04 pm - August 30, 2008
You do realise that Palin actually dislikes you? You particularly? Because you’re a gay man?
Comment by Nimrod Gently — August 30, 2008 @ 7:04 pm - August 30, 2008
“I love capitalism” DID NOT just invoke the Alaska National Guard, did she?
So Palin is out on maneuvers with The Guard every weekend? She actually commands the Guardsmen?
Shouldn’t be much of a jump to command the entire Armed Forces of the United States, right?
Pretty weak.
And the Gay Patriot will remain a second class citizen under McSame/Palin yet he will continue to support them.
Very Weak.
Conservatives happy with the pick? Only the ones who don’t know her, which is everyone. The ones who do know her, the ones from Alaska? Don’t like it one bit.
One good thing. From now on “trooper gate” will be forever linked to Palin and not Clinton.
Too Funny!
Comment by Tim O — August 30, 2008 @ 7:29 pm - August 30, 2008
Dude, she hates gays, and was forced to sign the benefits thing into law because she had run out of legal options not to. You are the archetypal turkey singing about Christmas, bro.
Comment by Dr Zen — August 30, 2008 @ 8:39 pm - August 30, 2008
Dude, I seriously want some of whatever it is that you’ve been smoking.
Now please excuse me while I go slap a PayPal button on my shitty little blog. I smell something, and it smells like rubes.
Comment by Rightwingsnarkle — August 30, 2008 @ 8:54 pm - August 30, 2008
Unfortunately, Dr. Zen, given that gay Democrats like yourself have demonstrated that you have no problem with state and Federal constitutional bans, or even workplace discrimination, if Democrats are doing it.
The reason you attack Palin is simple; she represents a threat to your incompetent black massa, who himself has said that marriage is a “sacred union” that gays and lesbians do not deserve, and who has himself endorsed and supported ministers like Rick Warren and TD Jakes who you scream are “antigay”.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 8:57 pm - August 30, 2008
Unfortunately, Dr. Zen, gay Democrats like yourself have demonstrated that you have no problem with state and Federal constitutional bans, or even workplace discrimination, if Democrats are doing it, i.e. John Kerry, Harold Ford, and Howard Dean. The reason you attack Palin is simple; she represents a threat to your incompetent black massa, who himself has said that marriage is a “sacred union” that gays and lesbians do not deserve, and who has himself endorsed and supported ministers like Rick Warren and TD Jakes who you scream are “antigay”.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 30, 2008 @ 8:57 pm - August 30, 2008
Tim O: Get real. Her Governor duties make her the civilian C-in-C of the Guardsmen. Whatever that means… However much, or little… it is ***MORE THAN BIDEN AND OBAMA COMBINED***. ROTFLMAO
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 30, 2008 @ 10:09 pm - August 30, 2008
I really want to know more about Palin’s views on gay people. I’ve read that she opposed gay marriage because she believes in the family, but that she has gay friends, and that she doesn’t know if people choose to be gay. What more is known? I am happy that she hunts and supports the 2nd Amendment: she might be stronger in that sense than McCain is.
Comment by Deborah DeWalt — August 30, 2008 @ 10:44 pm - August 30, 2008
I implore your readers to more carefully examine Governor Palin’s record on gay issues, economics and corruption. They are not what they appear.
The media, long absent from Alaska, doesn’t have the understanding or the ability to detail the massive corruption oil companies have brought to Alaska politics. Palin has operated as a casual observer, claiming to make bold stands against corruptions but sitting idle when her own party was under indictment. She disallowed the state to assist in FBI corruption probes. She’s campaigned for special interests–illegal under APOC rules. Now, she’s involved in pressuring the dismissal of a state employee without due cause.
Alaska is filled with Frontier politics, corruption and unlikely alliances. Palin is as dirty as Stevens and Young, she just hasn’t been caught–yet.
Furthermore, Palin’s economic policies are crazy. The state of Alaska has it’s own sources of oil, natural gas and coal. The state has two fuel refineries and a non-competitive market for energy.
Palin has made a deal to allow oil/gas producers to continue to charge the super-inflated rates not even found in California or Hawaii and is tapping the states cash reserves to hand out $1200 energy dividend for every man, woman and child who is a state resident. Plus the military.
The state is getting disgustingly rich off oil money but the other mainline alaska industries are starting to fail: fishing, transportation and tourism have all taken serious hits under her tenure as governor.
As bad as Alaska’s former governor, Frank Murkowski, was he at least advocated for Alaska industry by going to the places he was needed to pitch for Alaska salmon. She’s never met with world leaders and she hasn’t negotiated contracts with big corporations. Palin hasn’t been anywhere or done anything except to visit a couple of military boys.
Thinking of military, or National Guard to be exact. Technically, yes, Palin “commands” them or rather invokes them in times of crisis. She has never done so, not even when native villages were collapsing due to damaging winter storms. Palin has her own hurricane “Katrina” to contend with… only that the Alaska native corporations took care of the problem when the state wouldn’t.
To see that she’ll be in Louisiana for a photo op to shore up her and McCain’s disaster aid credentials smacks of hypocrisy.
Palin doesn’t have the experience to lead. The Alaska Senate leader, Republican Lyda Green states it best, “She’s not even qualified to be governor….”
Comment by Cynder Gray — August 31, 2008 @ 8:01 am - August 31, 2008
Deborah, I would too. We know that as Governor, she vetoed a bill that would have denied benefits to same-sex domestic partners of State employees. We don’t know much more. I’m guessing she’ll support whatever McCain’s views are, on gay issues.
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 31, 2008 @ 8:22 am - August 31, 2008
Livewire,
Wow, you already know enough about me to insult my work ethic? Good for you. You’re right in one way, I won’t have to do a lot of work to uncover the lies about Obama from the right. All it takes is a quick trip to Snopes.com and one ‘Obama’ search. But let me guess, that whole site was created years ago just to give Obama cover in 2008.
Comment by Troy — August 31, 2008 @ 10:14 am - August 31, 2008
To say that Governor Palin has acquired some sort of valuable experience because she “commands” the Alaska National Guard is a bit of a stretch. It is actually run on a day-to-day basis within Alaska by a career military adjutant general. And within Alaska, its chief function is rescue operations. Check out their website, which includes these highlights:
http://www.ak-prepared.com/dmva/
8/20/08 Alaska Air Guardsmen Respond to Rollover on Dalton Highway
8/19/08 Alaska National Guard Rescues Climber off Mount Marathon
8/7/08 Alaska National Guard Rescues Injured Climber
7/29/08 Man Falls Off Cabin, Saved By Alaska Guardsmen
When the Alaska National Guard is in deployed to Iraq or elsewhere in combat, it is under federal command.
Try to spin it as you will, Governor Palin was mayor of a city with about as many occupants as the first 60 floors of the Sears Tower, and governor of a state with about as many people as Indianapolis. Her third biggest credential is that she was a member of the PTA. And her fourth biggest is that she was a runner-up for Miss Alaska. This is the best the GOP can do?
Comment by Robert — August 31, 2008 @ 10:47 am - August 31, 2008
Why would turkeys sing about Christmas?
Comment by V the K — August 31, 2008 @ 11:11 am - August 31, 2008
And can turkeys even sing? I need to consult wiki on this.
Comment by V the K — August 31, 2008 @ 11:13 am - August 31, 2008
Cynder Gray, the veracity of your facts is made quite obvious by your inability to even spell Lyda Greene correctly. Furthermore, you leave out the fact that the $1,200 you cite comes, not from “cash reserves”, but from the graduated increase in taxes on oil and gas companies that Palin supported. You ignore the fact that she slashed $1.6 billion in pork from the state budget and that she blew the whistle innumerable times on fellow Republicans during her tenure on the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, including against the state party chairman Randy Ruedrich.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 12:41 pm - August 31, 2008
In short, Cynder Gray, you’re doing nothing more than repeating incorrect Obama talking points to protect your corrupt and racist candidate. When do you intend to talk about his wife’s massive salary increase, followed by an enormous earmark for her employer? When do you intend to talk about his sweetheart mortgage and his purchase of a house from a convicted felon and slumlord for hundreds of thousands of dollars below market? When do you intend to talk about his links and association with racists like Emil Jones and Jeremiah Wright, not to mention terrorists like Bill Ayers? When do you intend to answer why Obama supported and endorsed the corrupt machine politics for which Chicago is notorious?
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 12:44 pm - August 31, 2008
Finally, it should be noted that Lyda Green (I was wrong, it IS spelled like the color), the Republican Senate leader that Cynder quotes, is not running for re-election for two reasons; one, she’d get beat by a Palin supporter, and two, she’s currently enmeshed in the investigation of the VECO scandal that is taking down Ted Stevens. Seems she was taking some “payments” from VECO as well. No wonder Cynder and other Obama supporters, who see nothing wrong with corruption and bribing politicians like their Obama, are quoting her.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 1:31 pm - August 31, 2008
Finally, it should be noted that Lyda Green (I was wrong, it IS spelled like the color), the Republican Senate leader that Cynder quotes, is not running for re-election for two reasons; one, she’d get beat by a Palin supporter, and two, she’s currently enmeshed in the investigation of the VECO scandal that is taking down Ted Stevens. Seems she was taking some “payments” from VECO as well.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 1:31 pm - August 31, 2008
Oh yeah right. Sarah Palin is a big advocate for Gay Rights. Living here in Palm Springs, the site of the biggest Gay Pride Parade in Winter, they’re really erecting (no pun intended) banners to this spoiled brat daughter of the Confederate South. This is Scarlet O’Hara not a flaming queen. I know a lot of Republican cross-dressers who want to call themselves Gay and really are not Gay because they are still married to their wives. You talk Sarah Palin into coming to Palm Springs and riding in the Gay Pride Parade with her great-grandpa, and I’ll vote for her. You know what we lost from WWII? We lost all our fathers who would call this bullshit.
Comment by shari74 — August 31, 2008 @ 2:36 pm - August 31, 2008
Many years ago, as a resident of New Jersey, I often and happily voted Republican. My representative in Congress was Millicent Fenwick and the last Republican ever to represent New Jersey in the Senate, Clifford Case. Back in the 60’s and 70’s, the Republican Party, in the tradition of the first Republican Party President, Abraham Lincoln, was a far more tolerant place where fiscal conservatives and social liberals co-existed. Millicent and Clifford were great examples of both traits existing in the same politicians. They each could be pro gun (rural) and pro gun control (inner city) and they represented those in the Republican Party who helped save itself from the excesses of Joe McCarthy.
I have never been to this site before. But having read everything written here, what sickens me, I mean literally wrenches at my stomach is that there is no tolerance or respect for opposing views, so many of the comments are made contrary to known facts, there is an enormous use of racial slurs in the attempt to argue a position, and there is so little listening. You guys, not all of you but a good number aren’t having a reasoned political debate—you are simply spreading propaganda and hate. I am sure at some level,Palin as some admirable qualities, even as a VP candidate, but any gay person who could support a candidate who is seeking to amend the constitution to deny gays and gays partners equal treatment in pay, benefits, employment, hospital visitation etc—well that’s just nuts. You can be gay and a Republican and have it make sense if you [push within your party for tolerance and the type of candidates it once put up—but as for me I choose a place where I am welcome, where I may not agree with every liberal candidate and his ideas but I know he or she is going to be willing to listen to me and most importantly they are happy I joined. Not like McCain who upon finding out that certain donations to his campaign came from gay businesses this month, REJECTED THE CONTRIBUTIONS AND GAVE THE MONEY BACK. Today being a gay Republican is just illogical if you have any self-esteem and self-respect.
Comment by Forever Gay — August 31, 2008 @ 2:47 pm - August 31, 2008
I nominate shari 74’s comment for a Billy Madison award:
“Mr. Madison, what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.”
Comment by V the K — August 31, 2008 @ 4:56 pm - August 31, 2008
#30 - When I get there, I’ll say hi to your mother first.
Regards,
Peter H.
Comment by Peter Hughes — August 31, 2008 @ 6:49 pm - August 31, 2008
Fact: Sarah Palin is C-in-C of the Alaska National Guard and has ultimate responsibility for what it does, just like the President is C-in-C of U.S. armed forces and has ultimate responsibility for what they do.
Fact: In her position as C-in-C of the Alaska National Guard, Sarah Palin has visited Iraq as many times as Barack Obama. (and in shorter time)
Fact: the Alaska National Guard shares a military border with Russia.
Fact: However important or unimportant the ANG may be… However hands-on or hands-off Palin’s C-in-C duties may be… *it’s more experience than Obama has.* And that’s my point. Her qualifications, thin as they are, are better than Obama’s.
Comment by ILoveCapitalism — August 31, 2008 @ 7:13 pm - August 31, 2008
Not like McCain who upon finding out that certain donations to his campaign came from gay businesses this month, REJECTED THE CONTRIBUTIONS AND GAVE THE MONEY BACK.
From the Boston Herald:
Basile, who described himself as a “staunch Democrat,” said Crutchley has given the maximum amount to Obama. The Manhunt co-founder said he wouldn’t be surprised, considering the subject matter of the Web site, if Obama returns the $2,300 as well.
“Barack can’t endorse this kind of adult content. It’s sort of like a third rail,” Basile said. “I would imagine if it’s tough for one, it’s tough for the other.”
In short, gays like Forever Gay are blasting McCain for doing that for which they excuse Obama.
Not unlike their previous endorsements of FMA and state constitutional amendment-supporting Democrats like John Kerry and Harold Ford, not to mention their endorsement of Barack Obama’s opposition to gay marriage as “pro-gay”.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 7:58 pm - August 31, 2008
Oh, and Forever Gay….given your support of the DNC, which is currently under a lawsuit for discriminating against gay employees and firing gay employees who complain about Democrat homophobia, the only thing you’re doing is demonstrating that gay leftist liberals like yourself are complete and utter hypocrites.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — August 31, 2008 @ 8:00 pm - August 31, 2008
Then Bill Clinton, who commanded the Arkansas National Guard for four years, was a highly qualified military commander? Now I see how this works!
I can’t even find anything on the internet that says that Palin has actually given a command. Can you direct me to something? Face it, this is not nearly as important to her qas being runner up to Miss Alaska.
Comment by Robert — September 1, 2008 @ 8:49 am - September 1, 2008
Sorry — launched prematurely.
Face it, this is not nearly as important to her qualifications for office as being runner up to Miss Alaska.
Comment by Robert — September 1, 2008 @ 8:50 am - September 1, 2008
Then there is this:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/31/alaska-national-guard-gen_n_122860.html
Maj. Gen. Craig Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard, considers Palin “extremely responsive and smart” and says she is in charge when it comes to in-state services, such as emergencies and natural disasters where the National Guard is the first responder.
But, in an interview with The Associated Press on Sunday, he said he and Palin play no role in national defense activities, even when they involve the Alaska National Guard. The entire operation is under federal control, and the governor is not briefed on situations.
Comment by Robert — September 1, 2008 @ 8:52 am - September 1, 2008
Hey Dallas North Forty–As you accurately noted, Basile not the Boston Globe said Barak can’t endorse the content of the site. Taking a political contribution from an owner of the site is not endorsement of the site’s content. That’s like saying taking money from Michael Dell is an endorsement of Dell Computers. And I checked with Manhunt staff, the contribution to Barak was made. There has been no mention about returning it. And when I wrote my last comment, it was exactly people like you I had in mind when I mentioned people not having tolerance for a differing position. My mere support of a non-Republican candidate causes you to think that I must be some extreme leftist liberal and when I specifically write that I do not agree with all of Obama’s left positions and then you call me a hypocrite because in your mind a discrimination law suit once filed is not just a mere complaint, but is the God given truth, because anything you hear negative about the democrats you assume to be true beyond a shadow of a doubt. I know about the law suit but I don’t know the facts on both sides so I am waiting it out. And are you saying Obama committed the discrimination and can’t be supported. He isn’t mentioned in the complaint, no one is saying he committed the alleged discrimination. BUT EVEN YOUR BUDDIES ON THIS SITE point out that Palin vetoed the withholding of benefits to gay partners because she thought it unconstitutional and therefore she is seeking to change the state constitution so the denial of benefits holds up in the courts. Now that’s her position not the RNC or the majority view of even the delegates attending the Republican Convention. She is radical right, right of the delegates on civil rights, right of McCain on environmental protection, quite frankly she is right out of the Ice Age when it comes to social goals that would benefit all. It is guys like you and others that make it tough for someone like myself who is an independent, who has voted Republican not only a long time ago but as recently as three years ago for the Mayor of NY, to come over to discuss ideas that are not dead red points of view. But I do respect your right to act out that way no matter how unpleasant you make yourself.
Comment by Forever gay — September 1, 2008 @ 9:57 am - September 1, 2008
Did we listen to the same speech. She sounded like an average idiot! An average idiot I can’t see talking world politics with leaders around the world, much less on Washington. This is a huge mistake.
Comment by Jesse — September 1, 2008 @ 6:30 pm - September 1, 2008
Forever Gay, the entertaining part is that you accuse me of taking a lawsuit as proof of guilt while, over on another site, you are supporting and endorsing the idea that an investigation of Palin means she’s guilty, that she lied and that her baby isn’t hers, and that her daughter is some type of medical miracle that can produce overlapping pregnancies.
That is why you’re considered an “extreme leftist liberal”.
Comment by North Dallas Thirty — September 1, 2008 @ 9:17 pm - September 1, 2008
Sarah Palin is being used as a tool by McCain and his camp. They saw the popularity of Hillary and are trying to steal her voters who are in limbo. Palin wasn’t picked for her expertise but rather to try to suck up votes. Women should feel insulted that they are still being used for political ploy. After such critism by McCain on Obama’s “inexperience”, McCain picks Palin as a VP…it’s so hypocritical and obvious what his true intentions with picking her are. Hope people wake up to what’s going on.
Comment by J — September 3, 2008 @ 2:02 am - September 3, 2008
I was raised and have lived in Anchorage Alaska for over 40 years, and I cannot believe