Courting the Gay Vote...

by taking baby steps...

By Nia-Malika Henderson and Perry Bacon Jr.

The White House made history in two ways Friday, when it announced Jeremy Bernard as its new social secretary -- the first man and the first openly gay person to fill that role.
...
"Jeremy shares our vision for the White House as the People's House, one that celebrates our history and culture in dynamic and inclusive ways. We look forward to Jeremy continuing to showcase America's arts and culture to our nation and the world through the many events at the White House," President Obama said in a statement.
...
The East Wing has had high turnover at the top ranks over the past year and a half. Susan Sher, first lady Michelle Obama's first chief of staff, left in January and was replaced by Tina Tchen. Smoot replaced Rogers as social secretary in February of last year. Camille Johnston, former communications director, left in August and was replaced by Kristina Schake in December.

Bernard, who has been active in gay rights organizations, was a prominent fundraiser for the Obama presidential campaign in California. His selection marked a second decision by Obama this week that delighted gay rights activists.

Obama chose Bernard only two days after the administration announced it would no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act, the federal law that bans recognition of same-sex marriage.

The two decisions, combined with Obama's signing the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell" in December, could help energize a largely-Democratic constituency, and perhaps delay gay activists' push for the president to declare his support for same-sex marriage.

Fred Sainz, spokesman for the Human Rights Campaign, emphasized that Bernard's qualifications, not his sexual orientation, were what should be highlighted, but added, "You can't help but notice the significance" of the two moves.

But John Aravosis, a gay rights activist and blogger, downplayed the significance, asking,

"Are we setting our sights just a tad too low when we go all euphoric that a gay man is now the White House party planner?"