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President Obama endorses gay marriage – US politics live President Obama endorses gay marriage – US politics live
(40 minutes later)
4.13pm: We've got an open thread to take comments and questions on gay rights in the US and Obama's announcement today.
Place your question or comment in the thread, or by tweeting at @GuardianUS – we'll forward questions to our reporting team and feature the best of them in the open thread.
4.11pm: Fox News is speaking to famous political expert Christine O'Donnell on the subject of Obama and gay marriage. Do you know what that tells us? That no sane Republican wanted to appear on TV and talk about this.
4.08pm: A new national poll just published shows Barack Obama with a 50% to 42% lead over Mitt Romney. The poll, by AP-Gfk, also found support for Obama among unaffiliated registered voters:
Obama holds an edge among independent voters, an important but easily misunderstood group. Independents neither identify with nor lean toward the Democratic or Republican parties, but not all are swing voters. Some are strongly liberal or conservative, so they can be just as committed to a candidate as some partisans.
The AP-GfK poll found 42% of independents backing Obama, 30% backing Romney and about a quarter undecided. Fifty-five percent said they remain persuadable.
4pm: How or if the question of same-sex marriage plays out in November remains to be seen, but Jordan Fabian of Spanish-language channel Univision points out that Latino voters are not as conservative as often thought on the subject:
In a November 2011 poll conducted by Latino Decisions for Univision, 43% of Latino voters believe that same-sex couples should be allowed to legally marry while an additional 13% believe they should be granted civil unions. Twenty-six percent say they should receive no legal recognition.
"These numbers are not a slam-dunk. Some messaging to Latino voters is required by proponents of marriage equality. But neither do they portend any ominous news for the Obama campaign," pollster Gary Segura of Latino Decisions wrote in March.
And then there is how important an issue this is for voters. Just 3% of Latino voters listed abortion, gay marriage, and family values as a top concern for the 2012 election, according to a poll in January.
3.54pm: The New York Times's Jeff Zeleny looks inside the White House.
Some Obama advisers were divided on decision to support same-sex marriage, but concluded his brand has been damaged enough by hedging.
Got to protect the brand.
3.49pm:The Guardian's Adam Gabbatt talks to another campaigner disappointed that Barack Obama couldn't have made his statement on gay marriage before North Carolina voted to bad it:
"To be honest it's a little frustrating," said Tiffani Bishop, a same sex rights campaigner based in Austin, Texas, who has taken part in the Campaign for Southern Equality's bid to improve gay rights. "On April 24 he was in North Carolina where the amendment one vote was looming very, very near and he remained completely silent on the issue. For him to come out after such a horrendous defeat in North Carolina it's almost too little, too late.
"Don't get me wrong, it's a great thing that he's come out in support finally, I'm very happy he's come out in support finally, but there are still some other things that he needs to really push hard on and he needs to work hard on, one of them being the executive order.
"It's definitely a step in the right direction, and we've been waiting for him to evolve on this issue since he was elected, but the one thing that really puzzles me about all this is that candidate Obama, in 2008, said that equality is a moral imperative, and that he believed in full equality for LGBT people. It wasn't until after he was elected that he went back into the closet in some respects – marriage being one of them. It's kind of hard to take his word for things at this point.
3.44pm: Stay classy, Fox News's website headline writers:
Great moments in Fox Nation headlines: twitter.com/JeremyStahl/st…
Meanwhile, on Fox News the cable channel, Shepherd Smith described the Republican party of being "on the wrong side of history". So even Fox News's views are "evolving".
3.40pm: The Log Cabin Republicans – the gay wing of the GOP – rightly complain that Barack Obama's new position on gay marriage came too late for North Carolina:
Log Cabin Republicans appreciate that President Obama has finally come in line with leaders like Vice President Dick Cheney on this issue, but LGBT Americans are right to be angry that this calculated announcement comes too late to be of any use to the people of North Carolina, or any of the other states that have addressed this issue on his watch. This administration has manipulated LGBT families for political gain as much as anybody, and after his campaign's ridiculous contortions to deny support for marriage equality this week he does not deserve praise for an announcement that comes a day late and a dollar short.
Top marks for the "President Obama has finally come in line with leaders like Vice President Dick Cheney on this issue" elbow.
3.34pm: For another view of the possible impact of President Obama's change of heart:
The President of the United States just put himself on the opposite side of 32 statewide electorates. I could not be happier.
Joshua Trevino thinks that Obama has just given Mitt Romney a chance of victory in November. And there are 31 states that have constitutional bars on same-sex marriage, including most recently North Carolina.
3.25pm: Marc Stanley, chair of the National Jewish Democratic Council, joins the chorus of praise:3.25pm: Marc Stanley, chair of the National Jewish Democratic Council, joins the chorus of praise:
President Obama has admirably continued to demonstrate the values of tikkun olam in his work to make America a better place for all Americans. I am truly proud of President Obama and know that so many others in the Jewish community share my feelings.President Obama has admirably continued to demonstrate the values of tikkun olam in his work to make America a better place for all Americans. I am truly proud of President Obama and know that so many others in the Jewish community share my feelings.
3.20pm: Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, is quick to praise President Obama's change of heart on gay marriage:3.20pm: Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, is quick to praise President Obama's change of heart on gay marriage:
His presidency has shown that our nation can move beyond its shameful history of discrimination and injustice. In him, millions of young Americans have seen that their futures will not be limited by what makes them different. In supporting marriage equality, President Obama extends that message of hope to a generation of young lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, helping them understand that they too can be who they are and flourish as part of the American community.His presidency has shown that our nation can move beyond its shameful history of discrimination and injustice. In him, millions of young Americans have seen that their futures will not be limited by what makes them different. In supporting marriage equality, President Obama extends that message of hope to a generation of young lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, helping them understand that they too can be who they are and flourish as part of the American community.
3.13pm: For those excited about the impact on the presidential election of today's announcement, Larry Sabato has some cold water:3.13pm: For those excited about the impact on the presidential election of today's announcement, Larry Sabato has some cold water:
It's May 9. Bet gay marriage is NOT a determining issue on Nov. 6.It's May 9. Bet gay marriage is NOT a determining issue on Nov. 6.
That's in 181 days' time, if you are keeping count.That's in 181 days' time, if you are keeping count.
3.07pm: ABC News have posted some long passages from President Obama's interview on its website, and here are some key quotes:3.07pm: ABC News have posted some long passages from President Obama's interview on its website, and here are some key quotes:
• It is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.• It is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married.
• Malia and Sasha, they have friends whose parents are same-sex couples.• Malia and Sasha, they have friends whose parents are same-sex couples.
• [Michelle Obama] feels the same way that I do.• [Michelle Obama] feels the same way that I do.
• When we think about our faith, the thing at root that we think about is, not only Christ sacrificing himself on our behalf, but it's also the Golden Rule, you know, treat others the way you would want to be treated.• When we think about our faith, the thing at root that we think about is, not only Christ sacrificing himself on our behalf, but it's also the Golden Rule, you know, treat others the way you would want to be treated.
3.01pm: ABC has a news special, and goes straight into Obama's comments:3.01pm: ABC has a news special, and goes straight into Obama's comments:
I have to tell you that over the course of several years as I have talked to friends and family and neighbors when I think about members of my own staff who are in incredibly committed monogamous relationships, same-sex relationships, who are raising kids together, when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained, even now that Don't Ask Don't Tell is gone, because they are not able to commit themselves in a marriage, at a certain point I've just concluded that for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get marriedI have to tell you that over the course of several years as I have talked to friends and family and neighbors when I think about members of my own staff who are in incredibly committed monogamous relationships, same-sex relationships, who are raising kids together, when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained, even now that Don't Ask Don't Tell is gone, because they are not able to commit themselves in a marriage, at a certain point I've just concluded that for me personally it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married
3pm: Here we go: Obama says same-sex marriage should be legal, ABC News flashes up on its website.3pm: Here we go: Obama says same-sex marriage should be legal, ABC News flashes up on its website.
2.50pm: So what exactly is President Obama going to say today? After all this, it would be a disaster if all that comes out is a restatement of Obama's "evolving" position on gay marriage.2.50pm: So what exactly is President Obama going to say today? After all this, it would be a disaster if all that comes out is a restatement of Obama's "evolving" position on gay marriage.
So, assuming he does decide to change his position to one more in favour of gay marriage, the question is: by how much? The most likely outcome is that Obama supports legal equality for same-sex marriage – probably using a civil rights justification – and reiterates his opposition to the Defence of Marriage Act, which the White House has already said it won't be enforcing.So, assuming he does decide to change his position to one more in favour of gay marriage, the question is: by how much? The most likely outcome is that Obama supports legal equality for same-sex marriage – probably using a civil rights justification – and reiterates his opposition to the Defence of Marriage Act, which the White House has already said it won't be enforcing.
Anything else? A commission to study the subject? That seems unlikely. But the president really is powerless otherwise – with Republicans controlling the House of Representatives, repeal of Doma is unlikely.Anything else? A commission to study the subject? That seems unlikely. But the president really is powerless otherwise – with Republicans controlling the House of Representatives, repeal of Doma is unlikely.
We'll know in 10 minutes.We'll know in 10 minutes.
2.42pm: Terrible news for fans of General Hospital: today's episode at 3pm ET will be dropped in favour of an interview with the President of the United States, followed by bloopers and out-takes.2.42pm: Terrible news for fans of General Hospital: today's episode at 3pm ET will be dropped in favour of an interview with the President of the United States, followed by bloopers and out-takes.
According to ABC's website: "Port Charles and Llanview collide; Kate tries to impress Olivia; Felicia goes to see Mac." That should now read: "Barack talks marriage to Robin."According to ABC's website: "Port Charles and Llanview collide; Kate tries to impress Olivia; Felicia goes to see Mac." That should now read: "Barack talks marriage to Robin."
2.31pm: Think Progress has a slightly dated but more detailed timeline of Barack Obama's "evolving" positions on same-sex marriage since 1996.2.31pm: Think Progress has a slightly dated but more detailed timeline of Barack Obama's "evolving" positions on same-sex marriage since 1996.
2.24pm: Admire the logic...2.24pm: Admire the logic...
The best thing Obama can for Gay marriage rights is to be totally against it so that Repubs would then be for it.The best thing Obama can for Gay marriage rights is to be totally against it so that Repubs would then be for it.
In fact, in his 1994 Senate contest, Mitt Romney accused Ted Kennedy of not doing enough on gay rights, so who knows?In fact, in his 1994 Senate contest, Mitt Romney accused Ted Kennedy of not doing enough on gay rights, so who knows?
2.19pm: Mitt Romney, meanwhile, is being a slippery eel on the subject of gay marriage, as the New York Times reports from Denver today:2.19pm: Mitt Romney, meanwhile, is being a slippery eel on the subject of gay marriage, as the New York Times reports from Denver today:
When Rick Gorka, the traveling press secretary for the Romney campaign, was asked to clarify the former Massachusetts governor's position, as well as comment on the news out of North Carolina, he said that he was unable to, but that he would ask about holding a press conference for Mr Romney to answer questions on the news of the day. However, Mr Romney and Mr Gorka then departed, without taking questions from the national media.When Rick Gorka, the traveling press secretary for the Romney campaign, was asked to clarify the former Massachusetts governor's position, as well as comment on the news out of North Carolina, he said that he was unable to, but that he would ask about holding a press conference for Mr Romney to answer questions on the news of the day. However, Mr Romney and Mr Gorka then departed, without taking questions from the national media.
But Romney did make his gnomic remarks to a local TV station:But Romney did make his gnomic remarks to a local TV station:
Well, when these issues were raised in my state of Massachusetts. I indicated my view, which is I do not favor marriage between people of the same gender, and I do not favor civil unions if they are identical to marriage other than by name. My view is the domestic partnership benefits, hospital visitation rights and the like are appropriate, but that the others are not.Well, when these issues were raised in my state of Massachusetts. I indicated my view, which is I do not favor marriage between people of the same gender, and I do not favor civil unions if they are identical to marriage other than by name. My view is the domestic partnership benefits, hospital visitation rights and the like are appropriate, but that the others are not.
2.13pm: The ABC News hierarchy are just no fun:2.13pm: The ABC News hierarchy are just no fun:
I hear ABC staffers told not to tweet until green lighted -- don't want anything reported out of turn.I hear ABC staffers told not to tweet until green lighted -- don't want anything reported out of turn.
But of course, everyone wants to send that first tweet...But of course, everyone wants to send that first tweet...
2.07pm: ABC News's Jake Tapper reminds us of how Barack Obama answered his question about supporting gay marriage back in December 2010 – just 18 months ago:2.07pm: ABC News's Jake Tapper reminds us of how Barack Obama answered his question about supporting gay marriage back in December 2010 – just 18 months ago:
As I've said, you know, my feelings about this are constantly evolving. I struggle with this. I have friends, I have people who work for me who are in powerful, strong, long-lasting gay or lesbian unions, and they are extraordinary people, and this is something that means a lot to them and they care deeply about.As I've said, you know, my feelings about this are constantly evolving. I struggle with this. I have friends, I have people who work for me who are in powerful, strong, long-lasting gay or lesbian unions, and they are extraordinary people, and this is something that means a lot to them and they care deeply about.
At this point, what I've said is, is that my baseline is a strong civil union that provides them the protections and the legal rights that married couples have. And I think — and I think that's the right thing to do. But I recognize that, from their perspective, it is not enough. And I think this is something that we're going to continue to debate and I personally am going to continue to wrestle with going forward.At this point, what I've said is, is that my baseline is a strong civil union that provides them the protections and the legal rights that married couples have. And I think — and I think that's the right thing to do. But I recognize that, from their perspective, it is not enough. And I think this is something that we're going to continue to debate and I personally am going to continue to wrestle with going forward.
It sounds like the wrestling match is almost over, when even conventional wisdom machines like Mark Halperin of Time are saying things such as: "Every expectation that we will, within the next hour, be in a different world, where we will have a President of the United States who supports the legalization of gay marriage."It sounds like the wrestling match is almost over, when even conventional wisdom machines like Mark Halperin of Time are saying things such as: "Every expectation that we will, within the next hour, be in a different world, where we will have a President of the United States who supports the legalization of gay marriage."
2pm: The word is that ABC will release clips from the interview with President Obama at 3pm – or just under an hour from now. Which means we can enjoy Tim Gunn talking about "Swimsuit ready in 30 days" on ABC at the moment.2pm: The word is that ABC will release clips from the interview with President Obama at 3pm – or just under an hour from now. Which means we can enjoy Tim Gunn talking about "Swimsuit ready in 30 days" on ABC at the moment.
1.48pm: ABC is expected to be releasing highlights from Robin Roberts's interview with President Obama, which is taking place now. So time to tune into ABC, which is currently showing food programme The Chew on its DC affiliate.1.48pm: ABC is expected to be releasing highlights from Robin Roberts's interview with President Obama, which is taking place now. So time to tune into ABC, which is currently showing food programme The Chew on its DC affiliate.
1.28pm: Mitt Romney in Denver tells local television that: "I do not favor civil unions if they are identical to marriage other than by name."1.28pm: Mitt Romney in Denver tells local television that: "I do not favor civil unions if they are identical to marriage other than by name."
Romney: "My view is the domestic partnership benefits, hospital visitation rights and the like are appropriate but that the others are not"Romney: "My view is the domestic partnership benefits, hospital visitation rights and the like are appropriate but that the others are not"
What "others"? The right to hold hands? Presumably he means: pensions, benefits, things that cost businesses money – although wouldn't that also be "domestic partnership benefits"? As usual with Romney, it's impossible to know what he really means, and that's the point.What "others"? The right to hold hands? Presumably he means: pensions, benefits, things that cost businesses money – although wouldn't that also be "domestic partnership benefits"? As usual with Romney, it's impossible to know what he really means, and that's the point.
1.18pm: So is the US finally going to sign the UN's law of the sea treaty? After 30 years of opposition from the Republican right – hello, Senator James Inhofe – it seems that another push is underway.1.18pm: So is the US finally going to sign the UN's law of the sea treaty? After 30 years of opposition from the Republican right – hello, Senator James Inhofe – it seems that another push is underway.
General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been telling a conference in Washington DC that ratifying the treaty will strengthen America's strategic position in claims for territory, resources and passage in the Pacific.General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been telling a conference in Washington DC that ratifying the treaty will strengthen America's strategic position in claims for territory, resources and passage in the Pacific.
Is it a sign of the dysfunction of US politics that even though all living former US presidents and secretaries of state, the current members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and dozens of current and former Army, Marine, and Air Force generals and Navy and Coast Guard admirals have endorsed the treaty, as well as the US Chamber of Commerce – it still has not been ratified by the US Senate?Is it a sign of the dysfunction of US politics that even though all living former US presidents and secretaries of state, the current members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and dozens of current and former Army, Marine, and Air Force generals and Navy and Coast Guard admirals have endorsed the treaty, as well as the US Chamber of Commerce – it still has not been ratified by the US Senate?
1pm: Politico's Reid Epstein tweets from Mitt Romney's campaign stop in Colorado just now:1pm: Politico's Reid Epstein tweets from Mitt Romney's campaign stop in Colorado just now:
Q: "Governor, any comment on the president and gay marriage?" Romney: "Not on the rope line."Q: "Governor, any comment on the president and gay marriage?" Romney: "Not on the rope line."
A rope line being where they herd the journalists at these things.A rope line being where they herd the journalists at these things.
12.41pm: More vice presidential speculation, this time on the possibility that Mike Huckabee could be Mitt Romney's choice.12.41pm: More vice presidential speculation, this time on the possibility that Mike Huckabee could be Mitt Romney's choice.
Robert Costa writes in the National Review:Robert Costa writes in the National Review:
Yes, according to several sources close to the Romney campaign, who insisted on anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the vice-presidential search, the 56-year-old Arkansan may be included in the veep mix.Yes, according to several sources close to the Romney campaign, who insisted on anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the vice-presidential search, the 56-year-old Arkansan may be included in the veep mix.
To many Republicans, a ticket with a Mormon bishop and a Baptist preacher isn't far-fetched. "In a way, it's almost a dream ticket," says Ed Rollins, the chairman of Huckabee's 2008 presidential campaign.To many Republicans, a ticket with a Mormon bishop and a Baptist preacher isn't far-fetched. "In a way, it's almost a dream ticket," says Ed Rollins, the chairman of Huckabee's 2008 presidential campaign.
Exciting. But hang on, what's this? The very next paragraph begins: "For now, it isn't clear whether Huckabee is going to be vetted, or that he's anywhere near Romney's short list." Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.Exciting. But hang on, what's this? The very next paragraph begins: "For now, it isn't clear whether Huckabee is going to be vetted, or that he's anywhere near Romney's short list." Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.
12.19pm: BuzzFeed Politics comes to the party with a handy timeline of Barack Obama's previous media statements on the subject of gay or same-sex marriage, starting with this in 1996:12.19pm: BuzzFeed Politics comes to the party with a handy timeline of Barack Obama's previous media statements on the subject of gay or same-sex marriage, starting with this in 1996:
I favour legalising same-sex marriages, and would fight efforts to prohibit such marriages.I favour legalising same-sex marriages, and would fight efforts to prohibit such marriages.
12pm: Lavi Soloway, the lawyer and gay rights activist, sends his view of what President Obama may say about same-sex marriage in his interview today with ABC News's Robin Roberts:12pm: Lavi Soloway, the lawyer and gay rights activist, sends his view of what President Obama may say about same-sex marriage in his interview today with ABC News's Robin Roberts:
Among other things, Roberts is likely to ask the President about his reaction to North Carolina's vote yesterday, comments by the vice president in support of marriage equality and/or the state of the President's claimed "evolution" on the issue.Among other things, Roberts is likely to ask the President about his reaction to North Carolina's vote yesterday, comments by the vice president in support of marriage equality and/or the state of the President's claimed "evolution" on the issue.
Based on past experience the President will either say, "Look, Robin, I'm not going to make news here, today, on this issue," [yawn] and re-state the familiar talking points. Or he will perhaps take a step further to enunciate more clearly a now-familiar position that supports full legal equality for all gay and lesbian couples and opposition to federal discrimination against married same-sex couples citing his refusal to defend Doma.Based on past experience the President will either say, "Look, Robin, I'm not going to make news here, today, on this issue," [yawn] and re-state the familiar talking points. Or he will perhaps take a step further to enunciate more clearly a now-familiar position that supports full legal equality for all gay and lesbian couples and opposition to federal discrimination against married same-sex couples citing his refusal to defend Doma.
Of course there is another possibility: the president could offer an unqualified support for the right of lesbian and gay couples to marry, and strongly support full equality for LGBT families at the state and federal level. Stay tuned.Of course there is another possibility: the president could offer an unqualified support for the right of lesbian and gay couples to marry, and strongly support full equality for LGBT families at the state and federal level. Stay tuned.
We'll know later this afternoon when the first clips are supposed to be released.We'll know later this afternoon when the first clips are supposed to be released.
11.40am: So now there's this: following last night's vote to add a ban on same-sex marriage to North Carolina's constitution, there's a online petition calling on the Democratic party to move the Democratic National Committee out of Charlotte:11.40am: So now there's this: following last night's vote to add a ban on same-sex marriage to North Carolina's constitution, there's a online petition calling on the Democratic party to move the Democratic National Committee out of Charlotte:
On May 8th, the people of North Carolina voted in support of Amendment One, a constitutional amendment that discriminates against LGBT people, couples & their families. In protest, the Democratic National Convention Committee should MOVE its convention (September 2012) to a state that upholds values of equality & liberty, and which treats ALL citizens equally.On May 8th, the people of North Carolina voted in support of Amendment One, a constitutional amendment that discriminates against LGBT people, couples & their families. In protest, the Democratic National Convention Committee should MOVE its convention (September 2012) to a state that upholds values of equality & liberty, and which treats ALL citizens equally.
There's 14,000 signatures so far. But even if the petition gets 140,000 signatures, it's not going to happen. It will be embarrassing in September, though.There's 14,000 signatures so far. But even if the petition gets 140,000 signatures, it's not going to happen. It will be embarrassing in September, though.
11.20am: Richard Lugar's defeat in Indiana is the high water mark for the Tea Party is 2012, writes the Atlantic's Molly Ball in a very smart piece:11.20am: Richard Lugar's defeat in Indiana is the high water mark for the Tea Party is 2012, writes the Atlantic's Molly Ball in a very smart piece:
Lugar's defeat is a major victory for the Tea Party and the latest step in the ongoing drubbing of moderates out of an increasingly polarized Senate. But there were plenty of other reasons behind his loss. He didn't live in Indiana anymore, and had to change his official residence to a family farm after he was ruled ineligible to vote from the address on his driver's license. He ran a tepid campaign that was slow to engage. And his challenger, Treasurer Richard Mourdock, is no Christine O'Donnell: He's twice been elected to statewide office, and he spent more than a year assiduously winning over both local Tea Partiers and the state's rank-and-file Republican activists.Lugar's defeat is a major victory for the Tea Party and the latest step in the ongoing drubbing of moderates out of an increasingly polarized Senate. But there were plenty of other reasons behind his loss. He didn't live in Indiana anymore, and had to change his official residence to a family farm after he was ruled ineligible to vote from the address on his driver's license. He ran a tepid campaign that was slow to engage. And his challenger, Treasurer Richard Mourdock, is no Christine O'Donnell: He's twice been elected to statewide office, and he spent more than a year assiduously winning over both local Tea Partiers and the state's rank-and-file Republican activists.
Ball notes that there are several other high profile primary races – in Utah, Texas and Florida – where Tea Party-backed candidates are losing to establishment or moderate Republicans, making 2012 very different to the string of victories in 2010.Ball notes that there are several other high profile primary races – in Utah, Texas and Florida – where Tea Party-backed candidates are losing to establishment or moderate Republicans, making 2012 very different to the string of victories in 2010.
11.10am: The RNC thought the West Virginia Democratic primary result was so hilarious that they emailed around clippings under the headline "Obama Loses Large Share Of Vote In West Virginia To A Felon Doing Time In Texas".11.10am: The RNC thought the West Virginia Democratic primary result was so hilarious that they emailed around clippings under the headline "Obama Loses Large Share Of Vote In West Virginia To A Felon Doing Time In Texas".
Obama got 106,000 votes in the primary while Judd got 72,000. But the RNC somehow neglects to mention that in the Republican primary, one Mitt Romney got a total of 77,000.Obama got 106,000 votes in the primary while Judd got 72,000. But the RNC somehow neglects to mention that in the Republican primary, one Mitt Romney got a total of 77,000.
11am: We can assume West Virginia will not be a target swing state for the Democratic party in 2012.11am: We can assume West Virginia will not be a target swing state for the Democratic party in 2012.
In last night's Democratic primary, Barack Obama was running – if that's the right word – against one other candidate: Keith Judd, a prisoner at the Federal Correctional Institution in Texarkana, Texas. And the result was that Obama got 59% of the vote to Judd's 41%. There's a charming photo of Judd here.In last night's Democratic primary, Barack Obama was running – if that's the right word – against one other candidate: Keith Judd, a prisoner at the Federal Correctional Institution in Texarkana, Texas. And the result was that Obama got 59% of the vote to Judd's 41%. There's a charming photo of Judd here.
The Associated Press reports from Charleston:The Associated Press reports from Charleston:
For some West Virginia Democrats, simply running against Obama is enough to get Judd votes.For some West Virginia Democrats, simply running against Obama is enough to get Judd votes.
"I voted against Obama," said Ronnie Brown, a 43-year-old electrician from Cross Lanes who called himself a conservative Democrat. "I don't like him. He didn't carry the state before and I'm not going to let him carry it again.""I voted against Obama," said Ronnie Brown, a 43-year-old electrician from Cross Lanes who called himself a conservative Democrat. "I don't like him. He didn't carry the state before and I'm not going to let him carry it again."
When asked which presidential candidate he voted for, Brown said, "That guy out of Texas."When asked which presidential candidate he voted for, Brown said, "That guy out of Texas."
Judd got on the state ballot by paying a $2,500 fee and filing a form known as a notarized certification of announcement, said Jake Glance, a spokesman for the Secretary of State's office.Judd got on the state ballot by paying a $2,500 fee and filing a form known as a notarized certification of announcement, said Jake Glance, a spokesman for the Secretary of State's office.
With 41% of the vote, Judd would even qualify for a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in September under party rules. But state Democratic party officials say no one has filed to be a delegate for Judd.With 41% of the vote, Judd would even qualify for a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in September under party rules. But state Democratic party officials say no one has filed to be a delegate for Judd.
10.43am: FBI director Robert Mueller is appearing before the House oversight committee right now – live streaming video available here – and tells the committee that the FBI is examining the latest explosive device in the recent plot uncovered in Yemen.10.43am: FBI director Robert Mueller is appearing before the House oversight committee right now – live streaming video available here – and tells the committee that the FBI is examining the latest explosive device in the recent plot uncovered in Yemen.
Mueller also repeated his calls for Congress to keep in place counter-terrorism laws – such as those that allow electronic surveillance on foreigners persons outside the US – calling them "essential" to fight terrorism.Mueller also repeated his calls for Congress to keep in place counter-terrorism laws – such as those that allow electronic surveillance on foreigners persons outside the US – calling them "essential" to fight terrorism.
After that, the hearing degenerated into the partisan posturing. Virginia's Bob Goodlatte asked Mueller about the threat from dangerous "ultra-left" extremists.After that, the hearing degenerated into the partisan posturing. Virginia's Bob Goodlatte asked Mueller about the threat from dangerous "ultra-left" extremists.
Bobby Scott, a Democrat from Virginia, asks what the FBI's use of waterboarding was in interrogation. "None," replies Mueller – but he won't be drawn into describing waterboarding as torture.Bobby Scott, a Democrat from Virginia, asks what the FBI's use of waterboarding was in interrogation. "None," replies Mueller – but he won't be drawn into describing waterboarding as torture.
10.30am: On the subject of North Carolina's vote yesterday, Think Progress recalls the last time the Tar Heel state amended its constitution to define marriage....10.30am: On the subject of North Carolina's vote yesterday, Think Progress recalls the last time the Tar Heel state amended its constitution to define marriage....
FACT: Last time North Carolina amended their constitution on marriage it was to ban interracial marriage twitter.com/thinkprogress/…FACT: Last time North Carolina amended their constitution on marriage it was to ban interracial marriage twitter.com/thinkprogress/…
So some things have improved. Since 1875.So some things have improved. Since 1875.
10.14am: The New York Times is reporting that President Obama "will sit down for an interview with ABC News on Wednesday during which he is likely to be questioned about his 'evolving' views on the issue," with more detail:10.14am: The New York Times is reporting that President Obama "will sit down for an interview with ABC News on Wednesday during which he is likely to be questioned about his 'evolving' views on the issue," with more detail:
The interview, to be conducted by Robin Roberts, an anchor on ABC's "Good Morning America," is scheduled for 1.30pm and was secured in the wake of a declaration by Mr Obama's vice president, Joseph R. Biden, on Sunday that he was "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex marriages.The interview, to be conducted by Robin Roberts, an anchor on ABC's "Good Morning America," is scheduled for 1.30pm and was secured in the wake of a declaration by Mr Obama's vice president, Joseph R. Biden, on Sunday that he was "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex marriages.
The White House and the president's re-election campaign declined to comment on Wednesday.The White House and the president's re-election campaign declined to comment on Wednesday.
Interesting timing, given the result in North Carolina last night. Portions of the interview will be released later today, with the full interview airing on Good Morning America tomorrow.Interesting timing, given the result in North Carolina last night. Portions of the interview will be released later today, with the full interview airing on Good Morning America tomorrow.
9.45am: The fallout from North Carolina's landslide vote to ban gay marriage is dominating the political headlines, with President Obama said to be about to "clarify" his views on the subject of same-sex marriage in an interview with ABC today.9.45am: The fallout from North Carolina's landslide vote to ban gay marriage is dominating the political headlines, with President Obama said to be about to "clarify" his views on the subject of same-sex marriage in an interview with ABC today.
After a round of primary voting, Indiana's long-time US senator Richard Lugar was ousted by a Tea Party favourite, a man in prison won 41% of the vote in West Virginia's Democratic presidential primary, and Wisconsin prepares for the recall election over controversial governor Scott Walker.After a round of primary voting, Indiana's long-time US senator Richard Lugar was ousted by a Tea Party favourite, a man in prison won 41% of the vote in West Virginia's Democratic presidential primary, and Wisconsin prepares for the recall election over controversial governor Scott Walker.
Here's a summary of where we're at today from Ryan Devereaux.Here's a summary of where we're at today from Ryan Devereaux.
• North Carolinians voted in support of a constitutional ban on any kind of legal same sex union Tuesday. The decision makes North Carolina the 30th state in the union to enshrine a ban on same-sex marriage in its state constitution. While same sex marriage has been illegal in the state for 16 years, conservatives feared growing support for legal equality threatened the existing legislation. Voters turned out in large numbers and the amendment passed by a margin of more than 20 percentage points.• North Carolinians voted in support of a constitutional ban on any kind of legal same sex union Tuesday. The decision makes North Carolina the 30th state in the union to enshrine a ban on same-sex marriage in its state constitution. While same sex marriage has been illegal in the state for 16 years, conservatives feared growing support for legal equality threatened the existing legislation. Voters turned out in large numbers and the amendment passed by a margin of more than 20 percentage points.
• Veteran Republican senator Richard Lugar was defeated by Richard Mourdock in Indiana on Tuesday With a career spanning six terms and half a dozen presidents, Lugar had a reputation for working with Democrats, a quality that has become a liability within the GOP grassroots. Mourdock, Indiana's state treasurer, enjoys strong support from Tea Party groups and presents himself as a man devoted to rejecting bipartisanship.• Veteran Republican senator Richard Lugar was defeated by Richard Mourdock in Indiana on Tuesday With a career spanning six terms and half a dozen presidents, Lugar had a reputation for working with Democrats, a quality that has become a liability within the GOP grassroots. Mourdock, Indiana's state treasurer, enjoys strong support from Tea Party groups and presents himself as a man devoted to rejecting bipartisanship.
• FBI director Robert Mueller will testify at the House judiciary oversight committee today. He's likely to be questioned about alleged FBI entrapment practices. And although the foiled "underwear bomb" plot was a CIA operation, that may come up too.• FBI director Robert Mueller will testify at the House judiciary oversight committee today. He's likely to be questioned about alleged FBI entrapment practices. And although the foiled "underwear bomb" plot was a CIA operation, that may come up too.
• Massachusetts senator Scott Brown has called for a closer look at Elizabeth Warren's applications to law schools and personnel files from the universities where she has taught. Brown believes there are "legitimate questions" surrounding whether or not Warren, his likely Democratic opponent, cited American Indian heritage to advance her career.• Massachusetts senator Scott Brown has called for a closer look at Elizabeth Warren's applications to law schools and personnel files from the universities where she has taught. Brown believes there are "legitimate questions" surrounding whether or not Warren, his likely Democratic opponent, cited American Indian heritage to advance her career.
• ABC News has revealed American taxpayers have dished out $3m to support the living expenses of the last four living presidents. According to ABC: "In 2010, taxpayer-financed expenses included $15,000 for Jimmy Carter's postage, $579,000 for Bill Clinton's rent and a whopping $80,000 for George W Bush's phone bills."• ABC News has revealed American taxpayers have dished out $3m to support the living expenses of the last four living presidents. According to ABC: "In 2010, taxpayer-financed expenses included $15,000 for Jimmy Carter's postage, $579,000 for Bill Clinton's rent and a whopping $80,000 for George W Bush's phone bills."
• Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton will be meeting Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Nato's secretary-general, in the Oval Office today. The subject will be the Nato summit in Chicago at the end of the month. A meeting of the Group of Eight was scheduled to take place in Chicago at the same time, but the site was moved to Camp David amid anticipation of protests.• Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton will be meeting Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Nato's secretary-general, in the Oval Office today. The subject will be the Nato summit in Chicago at the end of the month. A meeting of the Group of Eight was scheduled to take place in Chicago at the same time, but the site was moved to Camp David amid anticipation of protests.