A new poll released by the Victory Fund shows that most Americans will continue to support a politician they agree with if they later find out that individual is gay or lesbian. Here's a quote from the Blade article

"Conducted by Zogby International, the Victory Poll surveyed 1,007 people this spring and found that 72 percent of Americans do not believe a politician's sexual orientation is important as long as the candidate has a record of "getting things done for everyone in the community," according to a press release."

The poll did not ask questions about gender identity or gender expression, but it is a powerful message to closeted gay and lesbian elected officials. Coming out may not be nearly as risky a career move as you might think.

And now, the Victory Fund has created a brand new Coming Out Tool Kit, designed to assist elected officials come out in a planned and strategic manner.

Many gay and lesbian elected officials are still living their lives in the closet, including one of my own Senators Barbara Mikulski. I hope that through the help of the Victory Fund they can realize that life is better when you live it honestly and openly.