A reader writes:
I have to disagree with your take on that gay Republican Minnesota State Senator. Where you see learned helplessness, I see smart politics. Senator Koering represents the Brainerd area, where my in-laws live. That area is rural, conservative, and Christian. If Senator Koering voted for the bill, what do you think would happen to his reelection chances?
Yes, you can argue that his reelection chances shouldn’t matter. He should do it to make a point. But that ignores the politics of this issue in Minnesota. Even if this bill passes, it is unlikely to survive a Gov. Pawlenty veto, making this a symbolic vote.
The fact is that in Minnesota, the gay equality movement needs Republicans like Senator Koering. In 2005, a constitutional amendment to bar any legal recognition of same-sex couples could not get out of the legislature thanks to people like Senator Koering.
It’s easy to call a man like Senator Koering a coward when you live out on the coasts where the politics of this question are much different. But gay people in the Midwest need allies like Senator Koering in the Republican party because in the Midwest, playing defense is just as important as advancing the cause.
The Dish 