Some politicians to be thankful for.....

It seems like very few politicians are willing to stick their necks out for LGBT people these days.  That's why when they do, it's important to recognize them.  Here are ten politicians I'd like to thank.

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick: Simply put, the issue of gay marriage would have been on the ballot in Massachusetts if it weren't for his leadership.  

United States Representative Barney Frank:  He's feisty, argumentative, doesn't suffer fools gladly, and has no problem speaking his mind to anyone and everyone, including LGBT leaders.  And how can we ever forget his wonderful response to the woman with the Hitler poster at the town hall meeting?  "Mam, on what planet do you spend most of your time?"

New York Governor David Patterson: He may been in trouble with the electorate, but that isn't stopping him from speaking out for same-sex marriage and calling for a legislative vote on the matter.

United States Representative Tammy Baldwin:  The first out lesbian in Congress, she gets the job done with tact, grace, and a smile.  Hard to believe she and Barney play on the same team.  Love them both.


United States Representative John Lewis: The hero of the Civil Rights Movement has also been a champion for LGBT rights before most even acknowledged our existence.  I heard him speak in the 1990's -- supporting same-sex marriage.  To this day it's the most impassioned speech for equal marriage I've ever heard.

Massachusetts Atty. General Martha Coakley: Has brought the Defense of Marriage Act to the Justice Department.  She's making people uneasy by putting the issue on the agenda, and that's all for the good.

United States Representative Michael Capuano: When Proposition 8 passed in California, he was one of a handful of politicians to address a protest rally in Boston.  He's been there for us every step of the way.  He and Martha Coakley are now running against each other for the senate seat Ted Kennedy vacated.  Talk about an embarrassment of riches.

United States Senator Ted Kennedy: Yes, he's gone, but there wasn't a politician I trusted more.

Rachel Maddow: Okay.  I know she's not a politician, but I couldn't imagine keeping her off a list of folks who have advanced LGBT issues.  And yes, we should add Keith Obermann while we're at it.

Victory Fund Candidates: The Victory Fund is a LGBT organization that supports progressive LGBT candidates.  This year, the Fund endorsed 79 LGBT candidates.  49 of those candidates have won so far.  Thanks to all of those folks who ran, victorious or not.