BACKLASH TALK

Some of you have chided me for not noting the USA Today poll showing a backlash against gay equality in the wake of Lawrence vs Texas. I didn’t because I think it’s a blip not a trend. The long run shows clear and growing acceptance. And it’s routine that backlashes like this occur. Take Vermont. In November 1999, the polls showed 47 percent against gay marriage and 40 percent in favor. Two months later, after the civil unions legislation passed, the opposition went up further to 52 percent. But a year later, polls showed that number down to 46 percent again and support for civil unions rose to 52 percent – a majority for the first time. A full 27 percent actually described themselves as “enthusiastic” supporters of the new law. Once people realize what this actually means, they calm down. And move on.

THE BBC VERSUS BLAIR: Here’s how they spin quotes. What Tony Blair said at his press conference yesterday was: “There is a big job of work to do – my appetite for doing it is undiminished.” Here’show the BBC described it: “Tony Blair has fended off questions over the death of weapons expert Dr David Kelly – but acknowledged that trust in his government was an issue which he had to confront. Mr Blair, who said his appetite for power remained ‘undiminished’ despite his recent troubles, said he understood the ‘very legitimate questions’ to be asked over Dr Kelly’s death.” The war continues. (Via Oxblog.)