Gay legislator at center of storm in Georgia

[JoFerret]

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/03/09/national/09GEOR.html?ex=1079413200&en=891134c80898336b&ei=5062&partner=GOOGLE

<<<In the late February debate, House members took their seats in rapt attention when Ms. Drenner spoke.

"I am who God made me to be," she said, "and I will tell you I was not raised to be gay. I make no apologies for that whatsoever."

She went on to say, "I urge you to remember that we were all sent here to find ways to improve the quality of life for all Georgians, not to exclude your friends, your family and your neighbors who happen to be gay."

As she returned to her seat, the chamber erupted in applause. >>>
<more>

[salin]

1. I don't quite think this is what Rove envisioned

events are shifting all over the place. Sure the more extreme followers of folks like Pat Robertsom are getting re-engaged and angry (but based on ltte, calls to cspan and talkshows, etc., - seems like this is nothing new) - but I think Rove thought most of middle America would jump behind George's reactionary response. Not only is it not the 'slam dunk' they had hoped (fire up the base - and get some of the middle) - the constant discussions around the issues are moving more of the public's perceptions of the issues... towards the left. Suddenly civil unions - which inspired Death Threats in Vermont a few years ago - is being staked out as "the middle ground". That is quite a shift. Wonder if the Rel. Right realizes that the longer they push - the more public discussions - and the more ground they lose... as it seems that when pushed to think the public isn't quite as reactionary as mr.s Robertson and Falwell would like to believe.

[pfitz59]

2. "First they came for the Jews, and then for the Catholics...."

I don't remember the full quote; however, it ended: "and then they came for me..." People are waking up to the Fascist tactics of Rove and company. We will not be cowed! Draw a line in the sand. If the battlefield be over gay rights, so be it! To quote a famous (unelected) pResident "Bring it on!"

[scottxyz]

3. Rove has his head up his ass

The country is probably about 20% Republican and 80% Democrat at this point.

Trouble is, you wouldn't know this if you only get your news from (a) corporate media ALIAS Pravda or (b) people in focus groups who are afraid to tell the government how afraid they are of the government.

Most Americans still like freedom and jobs and retirement pensions, no matter how many times Republicans sneer that these are "liberal" ideas.

Republicans - your tactics are getting OLD. We're on to you and your slimy ways now. You can fool the corporate media all of the time, but you can't fool the people all of the time.

[JI7]

4. WOW

that is soooooooooo GREATTT to hear. especially from georgia.