Obama Votes "Present" on Gay Marriage

Temple at Karnak - photo by JoAnn Sturman

Scott Sturman
fliesinyoureyes.com

Barrack Obama, Nobel Laureate and paragon of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, voted “present” this weekend on gay marriage.  He has used the tactic before as a U.S. Senator and Illinois legislator to avoid taking controversial stands which may cost political support in the future.  Even the bumbling Joe Biden had the courage to state his support, while quickly admitting it was the President and not him who makes the decisions.

Gay marriage is an emotional and polarizing issue, and Obama has enjoyed overwhelming support from the gay community.  Their champion threw them under the bus this weekend when it was announced his views on the subject were “evolving.”  The question is whether the homosexual electorate and the liberal press will give him a free pass. The strategy must be something like this:  “We know Barrack is with us.  He just needs to stay non committal to enhance his chances of winning this November, then as a lame duck he’ll come out in full support.” 

One might disagree with Ralph Nader but the man has integrity and nerve.  He stands up for what he believes irrespective of the consequences.  This attitude commands respect but not necessarily votes.  In Obama’s case it is inexcusable that as a person steeped in the philosophy of social justice and progressive politics, he  cannot stand for his beliefs.

When Proposition 8, which forbade same sex marriage, was brought before the California voters, Pelosi, Feinstein, and Boxer excoriated anyone who supported the measure.  To do so was immoral, procrustean, and down right wrong to paraphrase Senator Feinstein.  Hopefully, the ladies will talk to their President and let him know their feelings.