The Log Cabin Republicans, the largest Republican gay advocacy group in the U.S., says they will stand behind Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher as mayor of America’s Finest City, leaving City Councilman Carl DeMaio and District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis far from the reach of their endorsement.
The Log Cabin Republicans have long been supporters of LGBT equality, and in wake of their endorsement of the straight Fletcher, San Diego’s openly LGBT candidates DeMaio and Dumanis may likely feel snubbed.
“He has shown great courage and commitment to protecting the individual rights and personal freedoms of all San Diegans, including the LGBT community, speaking out even when it wasn’t popular to do so,” said Victoria Kerley, the group’s president in a statement to the San Diego Union Tribune. “As committed Republicans and LGBT advocates, we are proud to stand with Assemblyman Fletcher for a stronger, more prosperous San Diego in the years to come.”
In addition to the endorsement by the Log Cabin Republicans, Fletcher has also enjoyed a second endorsement from the San Diego Police Officers Association, a labor group of over 1,800 city police officers.
Fletcher may have gained support of gay San Diegans after his fearless speech in May 2010 against the military’s discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy.
“It was a difficult decision that was not made lightly, but we ultimately believe it was the correct one,” said Chad Terry, President Emeritus San Diego Chapter and Treasurer of California Log Cabin Republicans.
The mayoral primary will be held next June.
