Posted by Sir Four at 12:41pm Mar 17 '13Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio now says he supports same-sex marriage, in response to his son coming out as gay. Even as support from Democrats becomes more common, it's quite rare for a Republican to take this position.
What does it mean for the Republican Party? Their stance on social issues is killing their ability to reach beyond their base. However, their base is extremely motivated by these issues, so it's difficult to change. I predict this is going to cause real problems for them in the years ahead.
Here's a selection of some of the more dramatic reactions to Portman's announcement on conservative site freerepublic.com:
In four years, Republicans are going to have to decide where their next presidential candidate stands on issues like this. Stay anti-gay to help ensure the the votes, money, and energy of social cons? Or soften your position to broaden your appeal? It'll be a tightrope to walk.
What does it mean for the Republican Party? Their stance on social issues is killing their ability to reach beyond their base. However, their base is extremely motivated by these issues, so it's difficult to change. I predict this is going to cause real problems for them in the years ahead.
Here's a selection of some of the more dramatic reactions to Portman's announcement on conservative site freerepublic.com:
"He's got a faggot for son.. Guess the upbringing wasn't what it should have been. At the very least he should have disowned him."
"As for the whole homosexual shxt you're either against it or you're not.. there's no in between. It's a self chosen perverted lifestyle and family be damned."
"He should resign immediately and then, if he so chooses, run on his new satanic stance. He is now a traitorous running-dog for the homosexual conspiracy that now infests all facets of our once polite society."
"Being a sodomite is NOTHING to be proud of. It's a disease-ridden, repellent lifestyle that logically should have its members hiding away in shame. Like they USED to."
"This man is disgusting to jump ship and approve of degenerate behavior just because his son is a sicko."
"So because his son's a faggot we're all supposed to abandon our culture and God's law and accept this abomination? Rob Portman is an arrogant, selfish pr*ck."
In four years, Republicans are going to have to decide where their next presidential candidate stands on issues like this. Stay anti-gay to help ensure the the votes, money, and energy of social cons? Or soften your position to broaden your appeal? It'll be a tightrope to walk.