Ohioans: Gay Rights (Congress: to live in, law, residential)

[Townes Van Zandt]

I'm just curious how important "gay rights" are to Ohio voters.

Does a candidates stance on this issue affect your decision to vote for them?

The perception is that Obama is the pro-gay rights candidate in the presidential election. Is this perception true? What has Obama actually done as president that favors gays? Please, do not list what he has said in the past about the issue. I'm interested in actual action.

Thanks in advance.

[jbcmh81]

It wouldn't be the only reason I would vote or not vote for a candidate, but it's important to me that candidates have social views that are in line with the 21st century and are supportive of equality.

Obama has come out in support of gay marriage, has not defended DOMA, and DADT ended under his administration. These are significant, imo.

[Natural510]

I don't think gay rights are a huge issue to voters unless it affects them (or someone in their family) directly. Most people who vote down party lines usually do so because of social issues, though there may be a few who switch candidates this election with gay marriage still being a fairly hot-button issue.

[bjimmy24]

Sometimes I'm embarrassed to live in a country with such obvious discrimination against a segment of the population. Though I am not gay, it's troublesome to see some of the homophobic sentiments out there. It's just the wrong side of history to be on. I do believe that Obama is much more pro-gay rights.

Here's a pretty good list: eQualityGiving - Accomplishments by the Administration and Congress on LGBT Equality

[Cleveland_Collector]

Gay rights are only truly an issue to gays and to the part of the voting public who wishes to oppress them. I personally don't have any great push either way, but I believe all people should have equal rights under the law. So, naturally, I would consider voting for any law or candidate which would further that situation for anyone provided that I wasn't at odds on stronger issues.

Obama: Against DOMA and DADT (repealed during his 1st term).

[Francois]

Gay rights are only truly an issue to gays and to the part of the voting public who wishes to oppress them.

And those who simply don't believe people should be treated different based on whom they are attracted to...and those with close friends or family who are gay....and those who are worried about theocratic candidates advancing in public office....and those who simply believe in individual FREEDOM to be who you are without institutionalized discrimination.

Your quote is like saying "Women's rights are only important to women and those who wish to oppress them." Um, no.