I LOVE RUSS!!! Urges Marriage Recognition for Same-Sex Couples

[im10ashus]

WASHINGTON, April 4 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Today, the National Stonewall Democrats (NSD) applauded Sen. Russ Feingold (news, bio, voting record) for announcing his support for marriage equality for all Americans. The Senator issued a statement today through his Senate office affirming his support for full marriage equality for same-sex couples.

"Senator Feingold understands that religious institutions should have the freedom to marry adherents according to their interpretation of their faith, and not the dictates of politicians. American families will be strengthened by tasking couples with the legal responsibilities that come through civil marriage," said Jo Wyrick, NSD interim executive director. "Americans are quickly moving towards full support for marriage equality, and we are seeing a new generation of Democrats emerge whose leadership will help turn that support into law."

According to the statement issued by the office of Sen. Feingold, the senator expressed his support for marriage equality publicly for the first time this weekend at a town hall meeting in Kenosha County, Wisconsin. The statement also confirmed the senator's opposition to both the federal anti-marriage amendment and a similar amendment that will be placed before Wisconsin voters on a statewide ballot in November.

"As I said at the Kenosha County listening session, gay and lesbian couples should be able to marry and have access to the same rights, privileges and benefits that straight couples currently enjoy," said Sen. Feingold in his statement. "Denying people this basic American right is the kind of discrimination that has no place in our laws, especially in a progressive state like Wisconsin. The time has come to end this discrimination and the politics of divisiveness that has become part of this issue."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/usnw/20060404/pl_usnw/stonewall_hails_support_for_marriage_equality_by_sen__feingold__wisconsin_democrat_urges_marriage_recognition_for_same_sex_coup

:woohoo:

[Zenlitened]

1. I think he just got...

... my vote, if and when he runs for national office.

Wow!

:applause:

[im10ashus]

2. Me too.

I know a LOT of people don't think a Senator can win the nomination, but I would like to see more like Russ.

[Trevelyan]

20. Why can't a Senator win the Presidential nomination??

(scratch head)

[im10ashus]

22. That seems to be the "general consensus" anytime I mention Russ.

"We need a Governor, like Warner from Virginia."

Personally, Warner is to me just another DINO. I am sure he is nice, but I want a REAL Democrat, not a DINO.

[peacebird]

37. Warner is definitely DINO - not my choice for Pres either.

I want a true Dem

[BlackVelvet04]

96. Ok, I have to ask.....

what does DINO stand for?

[im10ashus]

98. It's ok!

I had to ask once too.

Democrat
In
Name
Only.

DINO.

:-)

[BlackVelvet04]

101. Thanks......

I knew basically what it meant but not what it stood for.

[darkmaestro019]

121. When I first saw it I thought it meant, literally, Dino

as in the purple dinosaur, as in "You're regressive, a throwback." Sometimes guessing from context leads you to more or less the right answer but a really really long drive out of your way : )

[im10ashus]

133. I think your definition is apt as well.

I suppose we can call them Dino's, in every sense of the word, acronym and otherwise.

:-)

[AuntiBush]

46. I Think Russ Finegold can!

Imagine a Gore/Finegold ticket, or Finegold/Gore. Just imagine... the power behind these two is filled with guts, integrity and might very well be the only two that can clean-up the GOP MESS!

:kick:

[iamjoy]

48. Couple Reasons It's Rough For A Senator

1 - They are perceived as lacking leadership or executive experience, something a governor has

2 - Their voting and debate records come back to haunt them. Even with the most constant senators, it isn't hard to find evidence of contradictory votes. This is because so many laws become Christmas trees, with all the Senators (or Congress people) trying to hang something on them. Would you vote for a bill that allowed gay marriage if it completely eliminated any federal funding for food stamps? A hyperbole, I know, but in a very real way, your opponent can say you either voted FOR gay marriage or AGAINST hungry children.

[TahitiNut]

59. Yep. That's it in a nutshell. That's why so few Senators ...

... have been successful Presidential candidates, only winning (iirc) when both major candidates are have only legislative credentials or a third party splits the votes.

[radio4progressives]

62. Al Gore was a Senator before becoming Veep..

and he won the 2000 Elections for President.

John Kerry was also a Senator, and won 2004 Elections but it was stolen from him too.

John F. Kennedy was a Senator before becoming President.

His brother Robert F. Kennedy would have become President, but the same cabal who rubbed out JFK and MLK snuffed him too.

[DLnyc]

115. True Kerry and Gore both won against viscious rightwing slandering and

fraud, and IMO would have made excellent presidents, if the SC and Diebold had not interfered.

Kennedy beat Nixon, who was, I believe, a Congressperson before he was VP.

But from the other side of the coin, I wish my junior senator from NY would spend more of her time advocating the positions of her constituents and less of her time positioning herself to run for president!

[Telly Savalas]

111. Because people have said so thousands of times.

And if something is said thousands of times, it must be true.

Don't you watch conservative pundits on TV?

[AuntiBush]

43. Well..

Let's see...

Abramhoff, buh-bye.
DeLay, hammered!

See, pigs do fly after all so let's not ask why a Senator can not gain the Presidential office, let's ask "WHY NOT?"

GORE/FINEGOLD 08 or vice versa. The two heroic Democrats with truth to power. Our country and the world needs them badly!

[myrna minx]

13. I has my vote too.

A man with real principles who stands up for the right thing even when it's unpopular. :loveya: Russ.

[xultar]

31. Mine too!

[AndyA]

3. Could Russ Feingold be America's best politician?

The man just keeps getting better and better at understanding what people really need. He's got my vote if he runs.

[im10ashus]

5. He's certainly the only one taking a stand on issues.

AND he is not afraid of the republican swift-boating. Give me 100 Senator's just like him.

[darkmaestro019]

122. That's what's making me so happy-in-the-pants about him, lol

Every time I go "There! See! Backbone, like that!" lately, it seems to have Feingold's name in the first paragraph if not the headline...

(thinks of Dumbledore, "...the choice between what is right and what is easy...."

[gkhouston]

11. Mine, as well.

:applause:

[VP505]

44. I think your

absolutely right, what say we tear a page out of the repuke play book and declare Senator Feingold as "Best American Politician". If all of us keep saying it loud enough and often enough, the Senate Dem's might get the hint!

[AuntiBush]

52. What an Excellent Idea, vpilot!

Recall asking where all our hero's were.

Then along comes Gore and Finegold. :patriot:

While I'm not Gay, after reading his views I couldn't have been more proud "again" of Senator Finegold. This is a man with no fears of standing-up for everyone, regardless of whether he thinks it might be unpopular, rather he does what's right.

There should be no doubt now that Finegold is NOT a Dino. He's a true Democrat, for and by the people. I'm actually getting more upbeat since he's becomes outspoken.

Edited: Typos

[me b zola]

117. "Best American Public Servant"

The word "politician" has a negative connotation and always reminds me of the slimey ones who are just seeking votes as opposed to representing the people. Just my .02 cents.

[jsamuel]

4. great job Russ, consistency is the number one quality of champions

(and consistency does not equal being stubborn ----> Bush)

[dogday]

6. Some Reasons To Vote For Russ

*Voted against the Patriot Act to protect our civil liberties
*Returns his pay raise to the Treasury every year
*Votes against unfair trade agreements (NAFTA, GATT, etc...)
*Demands the citizens of the US have the same quality healthcare as he does
*Has held open listening sessions in every county in Wisconsin for 12 years
*He has a broad appeal and has received many votes from both parties
*He has one of the best environmental records in the Senate
*Strong commitment to our Veterans with a record to prove it
*Works to cut wasteful spending and has received many endorsements to show it
*He supports a woman's right to choose
*He demands fairness in campaigning and fights to block 'corporate bribes'
*He has consistently worked to end the death penalty
*Works to helps Police Departments and was honored by the Nation Association of Police Organizations as the Senator of the year.
*He opposed No Child Left Behind
*Worked with students to increase Pell Grants
*Voted against the Iraq War Resolution and in favor of funding to support our troops.
*In Favor of Same-Sex Marriage

[im10ashus]

7. Thanks for that list!!!

I am bookmarking for reference. :yourock:

[dogday]

9. You should check out my journel, I

post many Feingold articles and info there, you mind find some more stuff.....

[im10ashus]

14. Thanks!

I will check out your journal.

:hi:

[IsIt1984Yet]

80. Did you know he posted promises to voters on his garage door??

"...series of five promises written on Feingold's garage door in the form of a contract. These were:

I will rely on the Wisconsin citizens for most of my contributions.
I will live in Middleton, Wisconsin. My children will go to school here and I will spend most of my time here in Wisconsin.
I will accept no pay raise during my six-year term in office.
I will hold a "Listening Session" in each of Wisconsin's 72 counties each year of my six-year term in office.
I will hire the majority of my Senate staff from individuals who are from Wisconsin or have Wisconsin backgrounds"

AND... get this... he sticks to his word. During his 2004 campaign for re-election "Feingold refrained from imposing spending caps on himself as he had in the past, and raised and spent almost $11 million. Although Republicans attempted to use that fact to paint him as a hypocrite, Feingold's records showed that more than 90% of the money came from individuals, that the average contribution was only $60, and that, once again, a majority of it was raised from Wisconsin residents "

He's held more than EIGHT-HUNDRED and FIFTY listening sessions with his constituents since being elected.

He's a stand-up guy and has proven that repeatedly. Time and time and time again.

[darkmaestro019]

124. Seventy TWO listening sessions a year?

That's two a week for like a third of the weeks in a year, basically...(I suck at math. Please don't throw things at me)

And everything else I assume a Senator has to do. He must work from sunup to sundown.

[Boone]

12. Great list!

I am very impressed with Russ, he is consistent and clearly has a commitment to upholding his oath of office and to the Constitution. I would love to see him on the ticket in '08. He is the real thing.

PS: I too am bookmarking for reference! :)

[Ian David]

19. And he has better hair than either Romney or McCain. n/t

[dogday]

23. Ok, he is not bad on the eyes either

It does not hurt to be good-looking, people tend to like the good looking person....

[CrazyForKucinich]

32. Sounds a lot like Kucinich

So why is Russ "electable?" while Kucinich is not? A matter of timing?

[jsamuel]

34. I'd have to say, "ability to organize a national campaign"

Although, that has not been proved yet, but just the fact that he has so much support online is a good indicator. I like Kucinich as well. Plus, I think Feingold is a better speaker.

But we shouldn't choose our candidates on "electibility". That is what a primary is for. After the primary is over, whoever wins is by definition "electable".

[tavalon]

51. Kucinich is a good man

and a lousy politician. Feingold is good man and a great politician.

[Voltaire99]

129. Nobody but a dyed-in-the-wool Christofascist is "electable" in Murrica.

But that's no reason to run one.

Go, Russ. :-)

[Idioteque]

47. His record on trade bothers me...

I am worried that if he becomes president, he will reverse years of progress on trade liberalization. Don't get me wrong...CAFTA was very flawed and needed to be renegotiated but Russ voted against free trade with Australia because it got rid of protectionism for dairy farmers. It's pretty messed up that he puts special interest groups ahead of the majority of the American people.

That being said, protectionist crap plays well in the red states and it's quite possibly the only issue I disagree with him on. On almost everything else he is right on the money. He will most definitly be getting my vote for president if he runs. I just hope he moderates his position on trade.

[IndianaGreen]

55. NAFTA was a disaster to the American worker

and CAFTA is a disaster to the workers in Central America.

Enough of this globalist crap!

[gglor]

108. nafta and cafta

only favors big business and destroys the middle class. globalization is nothing but crap. The main strength America had in the past was its independence. America manufactured everything within its border.

[RUMMYisFROSTED]

60. Before the income tax arrived in America,

everything was paid for by tariffs.

Protectionism often equals maintaining a standard of living. Otoh, "free trade" is a misnomer for GloboCorp lining it's pockets. Smart trade, not slogan trade, is the answer.

[radio4progressives]

65. I'm Sorry, but NAFTA, GETT and CAFTA are wrong for America

Those policies are actually at the heart of the issue that "illegal immigrants" are being scapegoated for.

[Bushies gotta go]

94. I don't know enough about CAFTA to debate it but

your "because it got rid of protectionism for dairy farmers" statement shows me the other side of the coin. Think about it. He's the Senator from the Dairy state. If your statement is true, I see it as looking after his CONSTITUENTS... not "special interest groups".

If he is truly looking out for his voters, wouldn't you like to see him as a national leader, looking after all of us instead of the * in power now?

I see a man here who seems to be the only one who is not afraid to stand up and take one for the team. I only fear the retribution that is forthcoming for him.

[meowfire]

132. Free trade concerns me as well

After reading the "Some Reasons To Vote For Russ" thread... I found myself generally supportive of everything listed with the exception of the free trade clause.

I have studied introductory economics and I regularly read the economist. I am generally supportive of free trade, though am of the belief that there needs to be a strong safety net system in place to help workers that will inevitably be displaced as a result. Free trade allows countries to specialize and focus on their fundamental strengths, produce more, and as a result everyone gains... or at least that is the idea present in the first week of economics 101. Yes it is much more complex than that, but that is the ideal I see at the heart of free trade.

I feel it also benefits foreign relations. Countries are much less likely to go to war if they are trading with each other. And I believe free trade joins countries together and helps to draw countries into the world community.

I post this not to pick a fight, not to bait, and not to piss people off. Why is NAFTA a bad thing? Why is CAFTA a bad thing? Why is foreign trade bad? As much as I have the feeling the benefits of these agreements outweigh their detriments, albeit with many uncertainties, ... why do you feel differently?

[Hell Hath No Fury]

137. Seeing as he's the Senator from Wisconsin...

he was protecting his constituents interests with that vote. That's what they elect him to do.

[TahitiNut]

61. * He voted against the Telecomm Act of 1996 (one of only 5)

That legislation was an abomination. :grr:

[radio4progressives]

66. It's almost as if he is the only Senator not on the TAKE.

And smart enough to understand how these horrid legislation is BAD for AMERICA.

[gglor]

104. Russ is incredible

I hope and plan to work as hard as I can so Russ becomes President

[galatea]

114. I'm curious

how does this same list compare to John Kerry's record?

thanks in advance.

[darkmaestro019]

123. *Returns his pay raise to the Treasury every year"

VOTE for him? I might PROPOSE to him. Or at least try to make him a very large and complicated dinner.

:woohoo:

Every single thing IN that list is what I'd put in the programming if I tried to make a perfect android public servant. I knew he was a good guy from wandering through various Progressive news sites, but I didn't realize HOW good.

[Solly Mack]

8. good for Feingold!

equal rights are not special rights

straight people against same-sex marriage are the ones demanding special rights...they want a right they would deny to others...and if you have to deny other people the right to marry just to feel good about your own...then you really don't have much of a marriage to begin with

[im10ashus]

10. Well said, Molly Sack.

Here in New York, lesbian and gay couples are without the 700+ rights and responsibilities that New York confers on married couples as soon as they say, "I do."

It's taxation without representation. And I have had enough of being taken for granted.

[darkmaestro019]

125. what you said. (applause) I've had enough of it too. eom

[Le Taz Hot]

15. We SO have to work to make sure

he doesn't get toasted before the rest of the country has had a chance to vote for him. He would SO have California IF he can stay in the race long enough. I've said it before and I'll say it again, he needs to STAY OUT OF IOWA! This guy will have all of Dean's supporters and more.

[BR_Parkway]

16. I liked him alot before, I (heart) Russ now! Finally a man who isn't

afraid to call things the way they are and the way they should be.

Attention Dem leaders who would have liked my support, my time and my cash. If you can't do what this man is doing (and has been doing) you don't deserve my support, time and cash. Russ is a proven leader, not a "wait to see which way the polls blow" kind of guy - and we need leaders, not political opportunists.

[im10ashus]

17. He is a REAL democrat.

And not a DINO. The real deal, baby!!!

:hi:

[Ian David]

18. Hell, I'm going to send him a DONATION right now!

"I need your help to fight for progressive values in government. Your contribution helps me protect Social Security, get rid of wasteful government spending, and fight for Wisconsin families. Thank you-- your contribution makes a real difference."

This is a secure, encrypted page to fully protect your credit card information.

If you prefer to contribute by phone, please call our office at (608) 831-RUSS.

If you prefer to contribute by mail, please send your check to:

Feingold Senate Committee
PO Box 620062
Middleton, WI 53562

https://ssl14.pair.com/feingold/contrib/contribute.php?refer=web

[bdamomma]

131. this contribution site

you posted is just for Russ, is the Progressive Patriot fund goes to those dems who are running in 2006. Right now I do not mind giving a donation to Senator Feingold, he is really sticking up for us, and going out on a limb.

[Gregorian]

21. I'm so optimistic right now.

There has been grave damage done. But if one only looks forward, there is optimism. Unfortunately, the reality is we're damaged. We're all in this together. And Russ is one of the politicians with a brilliant set of goals for a better country.

[pstans]

24. Classic Feingold

Feingold is doing what he does best: clearly articulating his position on a tough issue and not apologizing for it

:patriot: :woohoo: :applause: :yourock:

www.russforpresident.com

[jsamuel]

25. I call it the "Feingold Standard"

[pstans]

27. That is good

I might have to use that on my blog Iowa for Feingold at http://iowafeingold.blogspot.com.

[radio4progressives]

67. The Feingold Standard!! I love that!

A Bumpter Sticker in the making ... need a bit of graphic image for it.

[JohnLocke]

26. The great Senator

:thumbsup:

[blm]

28. That's good news.

It will up his HRC rating, bigtime.

[Initech]

29. Feingold is who we need in 2008

After this and the resolution to censure Bush, I'd vote for him over Hillary in a second.

[derby378]

30. Damn straight

Dated Feingold, Married Feingold. Sounds pretty damn good for two years from now!

[Akoto]

33. I think, if our party has a future ...

It will be in the hands of someone like Senator Feingold. I hesitate to place my confidence in any politician these days, but his actions have consistently impressed me. He stands up for what he believes in - important things, worthwhile things, just things - and doesn't back down when the bullies are stirred from their nests.

If he keeps up with this style of performance and chooses to run for president in '08, he can count on receiving my vote.

[Reader Rabbit]

35. He's almost too good to be true!

Every time he does another awesome thing like this, I get scared, worrying that I'm going to wake up from the great dream I'm having!

Then, of course, I just have to watch the news to make sure that the real nightmare is still going on.

So, is the Senator seeing anybody? heh heh heh

[Sapere aude]

36. Looks like he's running interference for all the other Dems.

He's saying what the other Dems want to say but for some reason can't or won't.

He is putting the ideas out there so they can be debated without the other Dems having to take heat for them.

[xyboymil]

38. Thats my senator! Woo-hoo!

[radio4progressives]

68. He's awesome, just awesome...

[ashling]

39. according to their interpretation of their faith ...

very good statement.

American families will be strengthened by tasking couples with the legal responsibilities that come through civil marriage

this is not merely a fairness, i.e, civil liberties, or a quality of life issue ...

strengthening American families is a national security issue

[malachibk]

40. I told my partner that I love Russ

Now I think I'm a little bit *in love* with him. (Don't tell)

[BigBearJohn]

41. Oh dear LORD! What a fresh breath of SANITY. Wow. I will campaign for him

GORE FEINGOLD IN 2008

[DemGirl7]

42. I'm loving Russ more & more these days

This man should be our next president hands down.:) :loveya: :patriot:

[xchrom]

45. this dude is gonna get my fucking vote

if he makes it that far.

he's gonna get my money -- or some of it -- that's for sure.

[undeterred]

49. If you love Russ join the $17.76 campaign to show support!

Just send in $17.76 to the Progressive Patriots Fund and let me know (I'm keeping a list- over $3000 since Sunday!)

http://www.progressivepatriotsfund.com/

[Spiffarino]

50. It's just Russ being Russ.

That is to say, a man of principle.

Way to stand up to the Neocon Death Cult, Russ.

[bee]

53. Thats settles it for me. NBF! n/t

[land of the free]

54. Quick glance at headline: thought you meant Russert!

as in Tim Russert! Boy, was I surprised!
:rofl:

It's great to hear Russ Feingold made this statement. I wish more politicans would have the courage to take a stand on this important issue

[ninkasi]

56. Russ Feingold is the best...

We're going to need a person of enormous integrity and honesty to begin to clean up the mess that Repuke control has created. I would be proud to vote for him as my President. I hope he runs.

[bliss_eternal]

57. Any way we could clone this guy?

:applause: :bounce:

[Laura PourMeADrink]

58. Oh shit, he can kiss his chances away now. Don't get me wrong,

I love him. AND, there is much value in standing your ground, speaking your heart, an courage of conviction. However, he just hurt his chances for the nomination. Sorry, real world, unfortunately !

[flpoljunkie]

63. Feingold's standing up for what is right may help him in primary process.

Americans are yearning for a real straight talker who is not afraid to speak out for what is right. We will see.

[rodeodance]

71. This support is not new as he has always held this position. It is just

that WI legislature is trying to discriminated against gays--.

[flpoljunkie]

77. Linked from Feingold's ProgressivePatriotsFund on his statement today...

http://www.progressivepatriotsfund.com

Statement by Matt Foreman, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

"Senator Feingold's announcement today is more than an important step forward in the struggle for equal rights. At long last, progressive and fair-minded Americans have a leader taking the ethically and morally correct stand for marriage equality — no equivocation, waffling or hairsplitting. And it comes as no surprise that the same senator who long ago recognized and successfully battled the corrupting effect of out-of-control-money in political campaigns has stepped forward to recognize and support a fundamental civil rights truth. This is the kind of courageous, principled and clear leadership this country so desperately needs."

In recognition of Feingold's announcement, the Task Force will present its 2006 National Leadership Award to the senator at its national dinner in Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2006.

http://www.thetaskforce.org/media/release.cfm?releaseID=932

[IndianaGreen]

69. I won't support a candidate that is for the war, PATRIOT, against

LGBT rights and reproductive rights.

Unlike the Beltway pukes that only love our money, Russ is for US!

[blakeley]

74. I agree, Laura PYB

Remember the president is only elected with the help, and hence, the vote of middle america. Middle America will never support same sex marriage. I hate it, but me speaks the truth. I had (and still have) high hopes for Russ, but I seriously doubt the south and much of the midwest will go for him now. I hate it, but I'm afraid on this "me speaks the truth".

[im10ashus]

87. Well, first off, welcome to DU.

It's always interesting to see what topics bring people here. Middle America is a vanishing population. "Values" have been thrown around for long enough. What is the value of my life? And what is the value of my relationship of nearly 10 years? What is the value of the excessive amount of taxes that I pay? When will "middle America" value me?

[Telly Savalas]

112. Middle America doesn't have to support same sex marriage

It's not the only issue.

I disagreed with Kerry on a number of things, but voted for him anyway.

There's a word for people who take same-sex marriage as a make-or-break issue: Republican. We're not going to get their votes, so we shouldn't court them.

[ruggerson]

75. Don't be so sure

America is hungry for politicians who stand for what they actually believe. If Reagan could get elected as an anti choice candidate, when 70% of the country was pro choice, Russ or someone like him can get elected as pro marriage equality, when 60% of the country is anti marriage equality. People will respect someone for taking a stand, even if they disagree with it.

[im10ashus]

86. I hope you are wrong.

I hope more Americans are brave enough and willing enough to recognize that my partner and I have been marginalized. Taxation without representation. That's MY real world. I am sorry you aren't able to see the future, but I hope you join us in our march forward.

:hi"

[xxqqqzme]

106. better check the poll numbers on this issue

before climbing out on that limb. A majority supports non-discrimination against homosexuals....attitudes are changing. What isn't about 2 change R the loud, screaming, christo-fascist voices heard over every corporate controlled media venue.

[im10ashus]

110. Hear hear!!!

I say call out that b.s. every time it's thrown in our face.


:hi:

[darkmaestro019]

126. Yes and no...

I shared that thought when I saw this, but a lot of polls have been saying most Americans favor equal rights and not special rights....I'm really glad he clearly and concisely said that churches will not be forced to marry same-sex couples if they don't want to--the RW likes to overlook that little factoid to scare the phobes.......

I hope you are wrong : ) The real world is what we've made it and could be much, much more than it is now if we keep at it.

[newsguyatl]

64. he just got my vote in '08

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

70. Russ had me at hello! He was the only Senator that voted against the

Patriot Act. :hi:

[im10ashus]

83. LMAO!!!

Please, no veiled Tom Cruise movie references.

:rofl:

:hi:

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

91. LMAO too!!!! I prefer to think of it as

a Rene Zellweger line, so there!!!!

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

:hi:

[im10ashus]

93. Very well.

I can deal with Ms. Zellweger. TC is just a footnote.


:hi:

[Chovexani]

72. I liked him before

I love him now. He's got my vote in '08! :loveya:

[ruggerson]

73. Kick n/t

[EFerrari]

76. K&R

:toast:

[im10ashus]

88. Hola, Senorita!

¡salud!

:toast:

[Name removed]

78. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[iconoclastNYC]

84. Welcome to DU!

P.S. What's creepy about equality?

[im10ashus]

85. Could you explain what's so creepy about it?

Or are you just the squeaky wheel that needs a little oil?

Oh, and welcome to DU!

:hi:

[donco6]

89. see ya

:hi:

[ruggerson]

95. moonbatswatter, meet fundienutcasecrusher n/t

[im10ashus]

97. Great visual!!!

:rofl:

:hi:

[Rockholm]

103. Yeah, riiiiiight.

[pinto]

79. Kudos to Sen. Feingold. For the record his official statement is here:

http://feingold.senate.gov/~feingold/releases/06/04/200604044.html

FEINGOLD OPPOSES DISCRIMINATORY AMENDMENT; SUPPORTS MARRIAGE EQUALITY

April 4, 2006

Washington, D.C. - Responding to a question posed at his Kenosha County listening session over the weekend, U.S. Senator Russ Feingold said he strongly opposed the proposed civil unions and marriage ban facing Wisconsin voters this November. He also expressed his support for the right of gays and lesbians to marry. Feingold holds listening sessions in each of Wisconsin’s 72 counties every year. Later this year, Feingold will hold his 1000th listening session as a U.S. Senator.

“The proposed ban on civil unions and marriage is a mean-spirited attempt to divide Wisconsin and I indicated that it should be defeated,” Feingold said. “It discriminates against thousands of people in our communities – our co-workers, our neighbors, our friends, and our family members. It would single out members of a particular group and forever deny them rights and protections granted to all other Wisconsin citizens. It would also outlaw civil unions and jeopardize many legal protections for all unmarried couples, whether of the same or the opposite sex. We shouldn’t enshrine this prejudice in our state’s Constitution.”

At the listening session, held at the Village Hall in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin, Feingold also expressed his support for the right of gays and lesbians to marry.

“As I said at the Kenosha County listening session, gay and lesbian couples should be able to marry and have access to the same rights, privileges and benefits that straight couples currently enjoy,” Feingold added. “Denying people this basic American right is the kind of discrimination that has no place in our laws, especially in a progressive state like Wisconsin. The time has come to end this discrimination and the politics of divisiveness that has become part of this issue.”

Feingold noted that removing the prohibition against gay marriage would not impose any obligation on religious groups. He indicated that no religious faith should ever be forced to conduct or recognize any marriage, but that civil laws on marriage should reflect the principle of equal rights under the law.

[im10ashus]

81. Thanks, pinto!!!!

Senator Feingold has shown time and again he cares about ALL Americans. My partner and I are deserve the same rights as every other American and Russ Feingold understands that.

He is proof there is hope. And where there is hope...

:-)

[iconoclastNYC]

82. First Dean and now Russ.

Exhibiting bravery to stand up for traditional Democratic values is the way get support from the PEOPLE.

Will the DLC be able to knife the people's candidate in the back in 2008 as well?

[ruggerson]

90. Dean supports gay marriage? n/t

[im10ashus]

92. He is for civil unions.

By far the most controversial decision of his career, and the first to draw serious national attention, came in 2000, when the Vermont Supreme Court ruled that the state's marriage laws unconstitutionally excluded same-sex couples and ordered that the state legislature either to allow gays and lesbians to marry or create a parallel status. Facing calls to amend the state constitution to prohibit either option, Dean chose to support the latter one, and signed the nation's first civil unions legislation into law, spurring a short-lived "Take Back Vermont" movement which helped Republicans gain control of the State House.

Dean would receive some flak during his 2004 presidential campaign for another decision related to the civil unions. Shortly before leaving office, he had some of his Vermont papers sealed for at least the next decade, a timeframe far longer than most outgoing governors use. He claimed he was protecting the privacy of many gay supporters who sent him personal letters about the issue. On the campaign trail, he demanded Vice President Dick Cheney release his energy committee papers. Many people, including Democratic Senator Joe Lieberman accused Dean of hypocrisy.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Dean

[ruggerson]

99. That's what I thought

Dean has explicitly said he is against same sex marriage but led the way on civil unions.

His once radical position is now supported by mainstream America.

[im10ashus]

100. I'd settle for civil unions.

It's not a compromise, IMHO. I will let the religious wing-bats argue term "marriage" among themselves, but as long as I am paying taxes, I deserve the same rights and benefits afforded any other "married" couple.

[ruggerson]

102. I don't really care what it's called either

but if it's civil unions, it's got to be a federal civil union law. Only federal legislation will permit federal taxation rights, federal inheritance tax rights, social security survivorship rights, etc. The current patchwork of varying state laws is a good start, but true equality has to come at the federal level.

[im10ashus]

107. And I agree again.

Federal recognition is of utmost importance. Having the guts to stand up for what you believe in has got to be a priority in our elections. No more false pretenses.

[darkmaestro019]

128. I'm with you-insisting we get our whole way or nothing is not productive

Take what we can get and HOLD that position. Moving forward in steps instead of moonwalk-leaps is better than not moving forward at all. Arguing over tiny points of language is silly; lives and health and safety and rights are far more important. We can fight to gain ground after that. Once Joe Dontwannablow sees that nothing really happens to him or his life, people will quit whining about their special little word "marriage" and the rest of it can be quietly handled up to FULL equality as sort of a nonissue....IMO, anyway....

[marmar]

105. It's heartening...

to hear a Democrat standing up for the most central of Democratic values - equality for everyone. He's just cemented his standing with me, just for having the guts to say that in the current climate.

[and-justice-for-all]

109. Russ kicks ass!!

He has my vote!!

"They" must be boiling in their veins to hear someone say this OUT loud!! I LOVE IT.

[readmoreoften]

113. Cinched my vote.

A dem who remembers the base. Feingold for Pres ASAP.

Feingold/Conyers 2008. (Ah, lemme dream will ya. It's not like there are real elections anyway, what'll it hurt?)

[galatea]

116. He has the vote of one gay man in NY!!

but isn't this going to make all the homophobic scum come out in scores election day?

[suffragette]

118. My admiration for Russ grows stronger every time he speaks out

He keeps providing the example of what America could, and should, be.

[Sugarcoated]

119. I've seen the future of American politics

and his name is Russ Feingold.

My blog, Pennsylvania for Feingold 2008 - there's 15 state blogs for Russ so far, 35 more to go. Anyone?
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[darkmaestro019]

120. That's it, Russ. You win. I'm sold.

Russ Feingold for President. :applause:

[radfringe]

127. Good for the goose?

NPR had a story on yesterday about the Catholic church coming out against gay marriage... not surprising

previous efforts to include gays/lesbians in equal rights/dicrimination legislation has resulted in cries of "NO SPECIAL PRIVILEGES"

so what struck me about the NPR story was the comment by a Catholic group who described marriage (hetrosexual marriage) as being a "sacred and SPECIAL PRIVILEGE"

what's wrong with this picture?

[bdamomma]

130. What a open minded person

Senator Feingold is holding nothing back. Good for him!!! Probably driving the religious right crazy. Too Bad, they are not saints!!!!!

[confludemocrat]

134. Once again filling a leadership vacuum. Got that Kerry, Biden, Bayh...?

FINALLY a guy with some goddamn guts.

[oc2002]

135. Fiengold is a FOOL. the Republicans will use this AMO to kill us.

stupid stupid stupid...political suicide.

one thing to say that in a very liberal town, and another to say it should be national policy...stupid.

[Sugarcoated]

136. BS that this is so bad! Here's my take:

I dont buy the Republican meme that this is so bad for Feingold. Bush didn't win in 2008 on moral values, or some lock on Christians. If the gay marraige add-on had anything to do with winning votes, it was overblown - more spin.

Dems lost because Kerry didn't take a firm enough stand on anything. People, regular Joes needed a good reason to change horses in midstream and Kerry didn't win their confidence. He didn't take a stand.

Feingold won over Repubs in Wisconsin by being a straight shooter. Repubs in WI were very well aware of his stance on equal rights for gays. But they voted for him anyway and he won by a bigger margin in 2004 than he did in in the election before that.

And I contend, if someone will vote based on such a transperant and obvious wedge issue, after what they've seen of their own eyes the incompetence and dishonesty of the Bush administration and all the corruption in the Republican party, they wouldn't vote for a Democrat anyway - not to say Feingold will write off the South, but he doesn't need the south to win in the general. He needs to win the west - and he will play well there with his plain spoken style.

Kerry's waffling on many issues important to Democrats, gay marraige being one, hurt him within the base of the Dem party. You have to stoke the base - and all the better if it's from a Dem with courage, spine and honesty.

This ain't 2004. The mood of the country has changed, Bush has lost cred. Once that's gone, it's gone,
and all this posturing from the right that now he's unelectable because he's stated his views on gay marraige like it's some new thing, it's not gonna concern Feingold one iota, and it shouldn't concern any of us. Trust his political instincts - he's sharp as a tack and has truth on his side.

Edit to add: I liked Kerry, I worked hard for him. The image propelled by the media wasn't right or fair, about him being elite, etc. But we've got to do better, and there is better.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

138. So a man who is...

all about genuine principles and not selling them out is supposed to do just that in order to not freak out the red states? Russ gets the kind of support he does because of his adherence to doing the right thing regardless.

[Griper]

139. The Best Thing Out of Wisconsin Since Colby Cheese

Russ is my man in '08. It's almost a sure bet he'll run.

[im10ashus]

140. Welcome to DU!!!!

:hi:

[Sugarcoated]

141. kick for the night crowd

:kick: