Two Strong Candidates for LGBT In Illinois Congress Race
People are used to hearing the criticism that there’s no difference between a Democrat and a Republican. In an upcoming 2010 congressional race, however, the statement we may hear more often is that there’s no difference between the Democrat and the Green – at least on one important issue. When it comes to support for legislation promoting LGBT rights, Democratic incumbent Mike Quigley and Green Party challenger Matt Reichel stand shoulder to shoulder.
Reichel’s position on LGBT rights: “I will do all in my power as congressman to prevent any future Proposition 8’s from occurring, while also striving to guarantee full marriage benefits for gay, lesbian and transgender couples. It is absolutely crucial to the health of our Republic that we stand up for the rights of all minorities, lest we become a dictatorship of the majority. From marriage rights to workplace rights, I will be a champion of the causes of Chicago’s LGBT community.”
U.S. Representative Mike Quigley is no slouch on these issues either. He’s not only a member of the LGBT Caucus – he’s one of the few members of the caucus who has actually taken the care to cosponsor most of the legislation the caucus endorses. Quigley has attached his name to 11 out of the 12 bills on the slate from the caucus.
To date, there is no Republican candidate in the 2010 election for the House of Representatives seat for the 5th district in Illinois. The tone may change when a Republican enters the race, but for now, the contest is refreshingly embracing and respectful of the great American tradition of liberty and equality for all.
