In an interview with the Huffington Post,
former Republican presidential candidate and House Speaker Newt
Gingrich made remarks indicating he and other GOP leaders should embrace
civil marriage equality – the latest sign of powerful momentum for
lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality this year.
Gingrich served as Speaker of the House in 1996, when the discriminatory
Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was passed into law.
“Newt Gingrich reflects the experience that has changed the minds of so
many Americans in understanding that LGBT people are a part of every
family and community – including his own,” said Human Rights Campaign
President Chad Griffin. “His evolution resonates with people on a very
personal level and is a quintessential example of why momentum is on the
side of equality.”
Newt Gingrich is just the latest of those who once opposed marriage
equality to evolve to a position of supporting the rights of gay and
lesbian couples to marry. David Blankenhorn, the star witness against
marriage equality in the Proposition 8 case, has had a similar change of
heart. As another sign of progress, the Mormon Church, which was the
largest funder of Prop 8, sat out this election cycle and remained
silent in the four victorious marriage fights.
In addition to last month’s marriage victories at the polls, Americans
are continuing to demonstrate their support for equality in overwhelming
numbers. In fact, support for marriage has increased 21 percent
in just eight years – a remarkable shift in public opinion over a short
period of time. As more LGBT people share their personal stories,
Americans – including an increasing number of Republicans like Gingrich –
are joining the ranks of equality supporters. Former Vice President
Dick Cheney, former First Lady Laura Bush, San Diego Mayor Jerry
Sanders, former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Ted Olson, former RNC
Chair Ken Mehlman, and Paul Singer are among those in the GOP who support marriage equality.
“Gingrich’s recognition that Americans now overwhelmingly support
marriage equality draws a sharp contrast with the few extremists
continuing to fight against equality,” added Griffin. “Gingrich’s
comments give other Republican leaders the room to do the right thing
and embrace marriage equality – which is reflective of the fundamental
conservative principles of freedom and individual liberty. The six
million LGBT people who voted this election cycle, along with the
decisive victories we secured across the board, make clear the direction
in which our country is heading.”