http://andrewsullivan.thedailybeast.com/2012/05/top-gop-pollster-to-gop-reverse-on-gay-issues.htmlThe part that stands out to me:
"Polling conducted among Republicans show that
majorities of Republicans and Republican leaning voters support extending basic legal protections to gays and lesbians. These include majority Republican support for:
a. Protecting gays and lesbians against being fired for reasons of sexual orientation
b. Protections against bullying and harassment
c. Repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.
d. Right to visit partners in hospitals
e. Protecting partners against loss of home in case of severe medical emergencies or death
f. Legal protection in some form for gay couples whether it be same sex marriage or domestic partnership (only 29% of Republicans oppose legal recognition in any form)."
So should the Republican Party in its 2012 platform, at least support the above measures?
1. They'd have a chance to gain more moderate voters.
2. People who are opposed to these measures are very likely to vote GOP anyway. No way they're going to make a third party or sit home and not vote just because of this.
3. The majority of Republicans support these measures, so it would be an accurate reflection of the average Republican position.
And this is the pollster's new talking point, explaining gay marriage as it fits within conservative ideology:
“As people who promote personal responsibility, family values, commitment and stability, and emphasize freedom and limited government we have to recognize that freedom means freedom for everyone. This includes the freedom to decide how you live and to enter into relationships of your choosing, the freedom to live without excessive interference of the regulatory force of government.
