Get out the Vote

The state of the State makes Nov 2nd a critical time for you to vote: Autumn brings another election, and in 2010 it is crucial for lesbian, gay, and transgender Pennsylvanians to COME OUT, to the voting polls. Several issues are being debated in Harrisburg and in Washington but what makes this election so important in Pennsylvania is the very real threat that a Republican party that is hostile to your rights will be in control of all branches of State government. In this year and in this State of Pennsylvania your vote truly matters! In many counties in Pennsylvania housing, employer and other forms of discrimination against sexual minorities are perfectly legal. If elected as governor, Dan Onorato would support expanding non-discrimination protections statewide. Tom Corbett not only does not support such protections but would also enshrine in our state's constitution an explicit ban of gay marriage. Other critical legislation awaits action in the State House and Senate such as a Hate Crimes bill and Anti-Bullying legislation in addition to statewide Non-Discrimination protections. The Republican Party already controls the State Senate and the State Supreme Court, meaning there are more Republican State Senators than Democratic. Currently there are slightly more Democrats in the State House but with just a few losses that balance could switch. The Governor's seat is historically likely to switch parties after eight years of Democratic control. That is why the political analysts at swingstateproject.com have named the Pennsylvania State House election to be the most important legislative race in the country. If voters don't take a stand on November 2nd, the G.O.P will be unchecked in our state government, potentially controlling every branch; the Supreme Court, the Senate, the House AND the Governors seat. The consequences of this will be serious, one of which is allowing them to re-draw legislative districts in their favor when it comes time to re-apportion after the 2010 Census. If that happens, it will be a long road ahead until all Pennsylvania enjoy equal rights and respect. - Steel-City Stonewall Democrats