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Good news from Houston! Annise Parker was elected mayor in a run-off vote on Saturday, making her the first openly gay person to lead a major U.S. city. City finances were the focus of the campaign as a whole. Only when the field was narrowed to two was Parker’s sexual orientation made a big issue, but she was able to carry more than 52% of the vote through a coaliton of Democrats and moderate conservatives. Parker had this to say in her victory speech:
“Tonight the voters of Houston have opened the doors to history. I acknowledge that. I embrace that. I know what this win means to many of us who thought we could never achieve high office. I know what it means. I understand, because I feel it, too. But now, from this moment, let us join as one community. We are united in one goal in making this city the city that it can be, should be, might be, will be.”
Congrats, Ms. Mayor-Elect!
What’s on your mind tonight?
2 Comments
One disturbing aspect of the campaign, though: Parker’s opponent used her sexual orientation as a wedge in an attempt to draw African-American voters to the Republican’s side. Is this a tactic that we will see more of in the future as more gay politicians rise to prominent office?
that’s hilary clinton.