Reply #35: Gay marriage issue will hurt more than help in 2004 election [View All]

[Martin Eden]

Republicans rely on FEAR and PREJUDICE to energize their base and persude swing voters. A clear majority of Americans (according to polls) are against gay marriage, especially those who are strongly religious.

Bush strategists are going to pound on cultural issues, and nurture the notion that a Democrat in the White House will further erode the moral foundation of America.

IMHO, it is immoral to play on people's fears in an effort to win their votes and deprive a minority of their civil rights. I don't for a minute think that gay unions threaten the institution of marriage -- on the contrary, when people in a loving, committed relationship get married and stay married, it strengthens the institution of marriage.

And there are many gay couples with children, who will definitely be better off if the pair of nurturing adults in their household are married. This is a plus for family values.

Unfortunately, far too many voters turn a deaf ear to these arguments, and take counsel of their fear and prejudice. I may be wrong, but I thinkthat if this issue influences the election, it will favor the candidate most identified with the Christian right (even though they are wrong).