The Paradox Called Gay Republicans

Is it fair to assume all GLBT people are inherently liberal? The idea of a conservative minority is perplexing to many- especially to those who wonder how a minority, such as a gay or lesbian person, can support a right-wing political party known for its anti-gay position. Even so, there are a number of conservative gay men and women who live and serve openly as same-gender-loving Republican elected officials and constituents.

Is the gay conservative an oxymoron or can sexuality be separated from other political beliefs in a party where they go hand-in-hand? The Republican party has been a strong opponent of gay marriage. Party leader and President Bush says, "I believe marriage is a union between a man and a woman. I believe it's a sacred institution that is critical to the health of our society and the well-being of families, and it must be defended." President Bush has also proposed the Federal Marriage Amendment (FMA), which would define marriage as between a man and woman in the Constitution. His position is solidified by many other party leaders, including Republican Senator Elizabeth Dole of North Carolina, who said, "Marriage between a man and a woman isn't something Republicans invented, but it is something Republicans will defend."

Some also belive the Republican party is seeking to purge itself of openly gay party leaders to focus on what it calls "core values" after the Mark Foley scandal and the retirement of Congressman Jim Kolbe.In 2006, according to the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, there were 350 openly gay elected officials in the U.S. up from 50 in 1990. Of those, 140 are Democrats and 11 are Republicans. With the retirement of openly gay Republican Jim Kolbe, the Mark Foley sex scandal, and same-sex marriage as a hot ticket issue, are gay conservatives being squeezed out of the conservative ranks? Also, have gay conservatives done enough to rationalize their conservative political position to the greater gay community? Should they have to? read more...