shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > News > World News > Article > Is America ready for a gay president Iowa casts first votes

Is America ready for a gay president? Iowa casts first votes

Updated on: 22 September,2019 07:12 AM IST  |  Iowa
Agencies |

That prompted a woman in the crowd to object with an expletive, igniting cheers from hundreds. On Friday at an LGBTQ forum in Cedar Rapids, Buttigieg framed his experience as a gay man as an advantage

Is America ready for a gay president? Iowa casts first votes

Pete Buttigieg

Iowa: The question posed to Pete Buttigieg—gay, married and running for president— came from a supporter at an Iowa campaign stop: What should he tell friends who say America isn't ready to elect a gay man as president?


That prompted a woman in the crowd to object with an expletive, igniting cheers from hundreds. On Friday at an LGBTQ forum in Cedar Rapids, Buttigieg framed his experience as a gay man as an advantage.


"One of the reasons I'm so proud to be a member of this community is because I think we have the power to reach into our own experiences, belonging to a part of America that also cuts across all the other different categories. We could help be that glue."


He also spoke about his own experiences facing discrimination as a gay man, noting the "weight lifted" when the government's policy barring gay men from serving in the military was reversed. He also described how it felt to host South Bend's first blood drive and not be able to participate, due to the ban on gay men donating blood.

Catch up on all the latest Crime, National, International and Hatke news here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK