George W. Bush received 25 percent of the gay vote and for the first time in my lifetime Republicans control the White House, Senate, House and have a working majority on most issues before the Supreme Court. Thus prompting the wailing, teeth gnashing and self-flagellation in the gay Democratic community that accompanied George W. Bush's inauguration. The reaction was a bit over the top. For too long too many in gay and lesbian leaders have systematically sought to exclude, ridicule and make irrelevant, even oxymoronic, the idea that one can be both gay and Republican. This does a great injustice to individuals, reveals intolerance unworthy of any leader in our community, is wrong and just plain dumb politics.
Acts have consequences.
It is undeniably true the Democratic Party has been a safe haven for gays and lesbians. Here in California, no governor nationally has done more to advance gay and lesbian legislated rights then Democrat Gray Davis. But it is shortsighted to practice plantation politics. We should be captives of no party. If you believe we are largely ignored or condemned in the Republican Party, then surely you know we are taken for granted by Democrats.