Many of the wealthy Americans who donated to President Barack Obama’s campaign in 2008 have deserted him. Moderates are upset with healthcare and financial reform, while liberals are upset with his move toward the center this year. And who’s filling in the gap? Gay donors are, according to
Politico.
They are pleased with the Obama administration’s successful effort to eliminate the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy toward gays. And they are enthusiastic about the Justice Department’s refusal to defend the Defense of Marriage Act.
The Obama campaign didn’t originally expect such generosity from gays, but is now trying to take advantage. The number of gays on Obama’s finance committee has risen from one in 2008 to 15 now.
“It’s ironic – a year ago there was no constituency more unhappy. There was a sea change,” said David Mixner, a veteran New York gay activist. Now, “You not only will see a united community that will contribute to Obama, but they will work their asses off.”