Gay Republicans Leading The Way

Joe Coscarelli relays a remarkable fact:

The New York Times reports today that “this cycle, three gay Republicans running for Congress … are featuring their significant others in campaign ads, a first for a gay congressional candidate from either major political party.” Less surprisingly: The races are in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and California, all against Democratic incumbents, and with only one facing a primary. Still!

Money quote from the NYT piece:

“Republican candidates are saying it loud,” said Mark McKinnon, a Republican strategist. “They’re out and they’re proud enough to feature their partners in ads, which I think just reflects how fast this issue is moving across the American political spectrum.”

Are Democratic gay candidates still in a defensive crouch at this point?