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by Jasmyne A. Cannick »

March 30, 2006

I Dated Jerry Way Before John McCain

A lot has been written in the last two days about the upcoming date between Jerry Falwell and John McCain (and to brag a little bit, we made sure that there was a lot written about this important story). To some, the new partnership between McCain and Falwell is a surprise. Yet, it shouldn't shock anyone who has followed the former maverick over the last few years as he has campaigned for anti-gay candidates and championed anti-gay amendments. And, Jerry Falwell's courtship of McCain doesn't surprise me after my own dinner with Falwell seven years ago.

Actually, to call it a dinner isn't accurate. In 1999, I went to Liberty University with Christian activists and openly-gay Liberty alumni hoping to press Falwell on his bigoted policies. Falwell had accepted our invitation to meet with him and returned the favor by inviting us to dinner. The day before we were to meet, fellow-fundamentalist Gary Bauer called Falwell to remind him that it is a sin to "break bread" with sinners - that meant us.

I arrived hoping for some chicken-fried steak and a jug of sweet tea (we were in Southwest Virginia), but all Falwell would put out were paper cups filled with water. He wanted the good press that came when he welcomed his "enemies" at the front door. But, once the doors were closed to the cameras, his real agenda was revealed - no loaves, nor fishes would be allowed.

Its similar to what is happening between Falwell and John McCain. The Arizona Senator desperately needs to court the anti-gay activists who control the presidential nominating process of the Republican Party. Falwell needs a new gimmick that makes him appear more mainstream than he is - thus keeping him as a regular guest on cable shows where he can spout his opinions. Its a perfect partnership. I at least got a hug from Falwell during our time together. McCain may just get a nomination.

Posted by John at March 30, 2006 02:49 PM