Richardson's LGBT Record

The discussion over last week's Logo/ HRC debate continues. I wanted to pass along some thoughts of my own as well as a statement Barney Frank released today.

Rep. Frank's first:

Governor Bill Richardson's apology for the mistake he made in saying that sexual orientation is a choice did not surprise me, because he has been a strong supporter of our right to be treated fairly throughout his public career. It is especially relevant that he voted consistently on our side from the start of his Congressional career in the 1980s, when the issue of LGBT rights had far less support even from Democrats that it has today. I regret Gov. Richardson's misstatement - as I sometimes regret one or two of my own - but his error in the pressure of a debate should not detract from his very strong record in defense of equality for all Americans, including those of us who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

As for my thoughts... I too think that Richardson's record is terrific. I prefer to judge someone based on their actions -- and his actions have been outstanding. He has fought tirelessly to end discrimination. As for the question/misstatement, many don't think about the how and why sexual orientation develops the way it does. Many don't analyze why we fall in love with who we fall in love with. We just fall in love with certain individuals -- no explanation needed. (It is especially true that people who are both straight and in healthy relationships rarely analyze why/how they fell in love with their partners.) The important thing (regardless of how it happens) is not to discriminate on that basis.