Mike Michaud announces he’s gay, alleges campaign to out him

[jpak]

Source: Bangor Daily News (Maine)

BANGOR, Maine — Rep. Mike Michaud, a six-term congressman from East Millinocket and the likely 2014 Democratic gubernatorial candidate in Maine, has revealed that he is gay.

Michaud, who represents Maine’s more conservative 2nd Congressional District, made his announcement in a column submitted late Sunday concurrently to the Bangor Daily News, The Associated Press and the Portland Press Herald.

In his column, Michaud said he chose to make public his sexual orientation to defuse “whisper campaigns” allegedly launched by his political opponents about whether he is gay. Michaud would become the nation’s first openly gay governor if elected in 2014.

“Allow me to save them the trouble with a simple, honest answer,” wrote Michaud. “‘Yes, I am. But why should it matter?’”

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Read more: http://bangordailynews.com/2013/11/04/politics/elections/mike-michaud-announces-hes-gay-alleges-campaign-to-out-him-2/?ref=comments

[DonViejo]

1. His "coming out" Op-ed...

Mike Michaud: Yes, I am gay. ‘But why should it matter?’ is posted here:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1251336379

[drynberg]

2. IT DOESN'T MATTER MIKE, WHAT MATTERS IS THAT YOU'RE THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR!

You've got my vote and LePage's followers can vote for you too, if they care about their self interests.

[Democat]

3. Good for him

Put the rumors to rest and get back to the election issues.

[mainer]

4. Good to get ahead of the rumors

I've long heard the rumors, and it's a relief to have it out in the open. I think it will only help him.

[Gormy Cuss]

7. Yes, good strategic move.

It won't hurt him in the 1st district and probably won't hurt him much in his district.

[davidthegnome]

5. Michaud is something of a conservative democrat.

He's probably going to be our best option for 2014 though. I don't agree with a number of his policies, but overall, he's a hell of a lot better than LePrick. Unless a strong progressive candidate runs, he'll probably get my vote.

[AngryAmish]

6. In my lifetime there have been two gay governors of Illnois

I don't think should be a big deal.