Issue Position: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender

Issue Position

Keith strongly believes that LGBT people and families should have the same rights and responsibilities as all other Americans. In his view, all people deserve equal rights under the law, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Keith strongly opposes any attempt to amend the U.S. Constitution to prohibit LGBT couples from marrying. He supports the Respect for Marriage Act, which would repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act. Couples in same-sex marriages performed legally in individual states are entitled to the protections and benefits of all federal statutes.

In December 2010, Keith proudly joined his Democratic colleagues and President Obama in repealing the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Our servicemen and women make great sacrifices to protect our freedoms. It is right and just that we allow them to serve regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. Doing so will not only strengthen our military, but send the message that we accept people for who they are. For their service and sacrifice, we owe it to our LGBT soldiers to let them serve our country openly, just like everyone else.

Keith also supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, a bill which protects employees based on their real or perceived sexual orientation. Keith has pushed for Congress to add gender identity to the bill, which would provide additional protections for the rights of thousands of Minnesotans.

We have made progress advancing the rights of the LGBT community, but there is much more work to be done.

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