First Presidential debate for LGBT community tomorrow

By Tony Grew • August 8, 2007 - 12:07

This first televised debate on LGBT issues is sponsored by LOGO and Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF).

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Seven of the candidates for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States will take part in the first-ever debate for the gay community tomorrow.

The 90 minute event will be broadcast live on gay network LOGO and through live streaming at LOGOonline.com and the debate will be the first time the network has broadcast live.

Front runners Hilary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards will participate alongside Mike Gravel, Dennis Kucinich and Bill Richardson.

Republican hopefuls were also invited but none chose to take part.

Human rights activist Joe Solomnese and gay performer Melissa Etheridge will question Democratic candidates, who are expected to engage on issues such as relationship recognition, marriage equality, workplace fairness, gay in the military, hate crimes and HIV/AIDS.

"In the 2008 presidential elections, issues of concern to the LGBT community have already been at the forefront of the national conversation," said Mr Solomnese.

"From the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' to the recent signing of a civil unions bill in New Hampshire, there is no doubt that voters will demand answers to important questions affecting our community."

"We're honoured to give the presidential candidates a historic opportunity to share their views directly with the LGBT audience," said Brian Graden, LOGO president.

This first televised debate on LGBT issues is sponsored by LOGO and Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF).

Exit poll data states the LGBT community in the United States is considered a decisive electoral force and makes up approximately 4% of the voting population.

Los Angeles was chosen as the site for the event because of California's early primary election, on February 5th 2008.

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