To out, or not to out

I have been conflicted about the ‘outing’ campaign by folks like Signorile.

The ‘angry’ me, understands the temptation. These folks get elected by sucking at the anti-gay teat, then tur4n around and secretly suckle the gay... well, let’s leave that analogy. The fact is, it’s hypocritical. And, often, these ‘conservative’ closet cases compensate by being rabidly anti-gay in their actions. To throw off the scent, as it were.

The liberal in me, however, sees a problem with it. The process of accepting and integrating your gay identity is a very personal one, and it’s not a process I feel is served well by having it foisted on people.

Then again, if a politician wraps themselves in the ‘family value’ cloak, and is secretly having an affair – I feel it’s justified to expose the affair. Intellectually, there’s not much difference.

Outing an 18 year old staffer, however, seems to cross the line. Yes, he arguable put himself into the spot light by getting involved in politics. Still, contrary to what Savage suggests, 18 is not necessarily ‘old enough’ to fully understand his actions. While coming out ages are going down, there are plenty of people who aren’t in a good enough place at 18 to be able to take that leap.

Add to that, that part of the justification for ‘outing’ the politician /senior staff is because they have direct control over what anti-gay measures they introduce/support. That justification doesn’t exist here. This is a kid staffer. One with political aspiration to be sure, but a kid none the less.

I’m not defending any of Tyler’s acts which, for the most part, have been horrible. I am saying, to me, there is a huge difference between outing a 40 year old closeted politician, and an 18 year old staffer.

Even if the 18 year old is a bit of a jerk.