Conservatives Use Gay Union as Rallying Cry

Sunday, February 08, 2004
by David D. Kirkpatrick

Refer to Chapter

Essence of the Story

- The recent controversy over gay marriage has revitalized the Christian conservative movement.
- Some compare the organizing potential of gay marriage to the issue that gave birth to the Christian right movement: abortion.
- Groups managed to get Bush to sign on to an effort to pass a Constitutional ban.

Political Analysis

- Activist groups often are most energetic when they are out of power; once in power, they have to make the kinds of compromises that may alienate true believers. The Christian right has faced this dilemma with Bush in office.
- The national focus on terrorism has also frustrated these groups, who are mainly concerned with domestic social issues.
- The movement faces an important strategic choice: push for a strict ban, even on civil unions, to energize their followers, or focus on protecting "marriage" and appeal to a wider segment of the public.

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