Free Republic

All the major Democratic presidential candidates-and none of the Republicans-will be in Los Angeles tonight for what was billed as a nonpartisan forum on issues important to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans. The televised event showcases the status that gays' votes and money have earned them in the Democratic Party, but also the continued controversy of their cause. Writer and gay-rights advocate David Mixner recognizes this as much as anyone. Two decades ago, the 1988 presidential campaign of Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis, fearful of controversy, declined an offer by Mr. Mixner and three wealthy friends to raise $1 million...

The forum, at 9 p.m. ET in Los Angeles, California, is co-sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign, the country's leading organization advocating equal rights for gays, lesbians, and the transgender community. Also sponsoring the event is LOGO, a gay and lesbian television network that is part of MTV Networks which will televise the debate. While just three percent of 2006 voters identified themselves as gay or lesbian, the community is largely Democratic and politically active. All Democratic candidates will be there except Sen. Joseph Biden and Sen. Chris Dodd who say they have scheduling conflicts. No Republican candidates agreed to...