Eleventh Avenue South: Republican Operative Defending Gays?

June 29, 2006

Republican Operative Defending Gays?

Local Republican operative, Michael Brodkorb, who blogs at Minnesota Democrats Exposed is spending a lot of time trying to paint 5th Congressional District Candidate, Keith Ellison, as anti-gay because of ties to Louis Farrakahn. MDE goes so far as to ask "when does he [Ellison] apologize to the gay community and other victims of Louis Farrakahn's hate?"

Keith Ellison has had a great record on gay issues in Minnesota. I heard him on AM 950 around the time he announced his candidacy and he talked eloquently on GLBT issues. He even went so far as to connect some of the increase in anti-gay violence over the past few years on the extreme renewed focus on gays by the religious right, and amendment pushes by legislators like Michele Bachmann (he actually mentioned her by name). These battles against gay rights put a target on the backs of GLBT people as religious-political fanatics like Bachmann compare us to Satan.

Keith Ellison has made tough choices to support the GLBT community. He is both African American and Muslin, two communities that at times tend to be less tolerant of GLBT people. Yet, he is an ally.

Note to MDE: we don't need or want your help "protecting" us from anti-gay Democrats. You should look in your own backyard and the rampant anti-gay activities of your GOP. Don't use our issues to bash Democrats, unless you're willing to take Republicans to task as well.

Posted by Andy at June 29, 2006 5:36 PM

Comments

While I agree with you that Keith Ellison has a good record on gay issues, I also hope that Minnesota Democrat Exposer, Michael Brodkorb turns his attention on Mike Hatch and Rebecca Otto - both democrats who have poor records on gay issues.

Posted by: Eva Young | June 30, 2006 8:52 PM

I'm with you, Eva. I am really disapointed with the DFl on some of these choices. It's too bad Brodkorb is so wrapped up in bashing Democrats, that he can't see these nuances. If he wants to use gay issues to call out bad Dems. I'm all for it. I won't hold my breath though.

Posted by: Andy | June 30, 2006 11:24 PM

I hope you also expose the Mike Hatch and Rebecca Otto records.

I think it's a good sign that Brodkorb noted Farrakhan's homophobia as objectionable.

I'd assume Brodkorb will expose other democrats on their anti-gay records. You can encourage him to do so by contacting him and giving him tips.

Posted by: Eva Young | July 1, 2006 5:12 PM

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June 29, 2006

Republican Operative Defending Gays?

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