Political meet personal

By now, you’ve probably seen both of these clips. The first is Ellen’s joyous announcement that she and Portia are getting married now that the California Supreme Court had overturned the ban on gay marriage. The second is Republican presidential nominee John McCain explaining why gays and lesbians should not be allowed to legally marry. I’ve put them together because they are the perfect illustration of the clash of the personal and the political. Take a look (if you haven’t already) and we’ll dish.

So, how can you call yourself a human being and not be happy for Ellen and Portia after seeing that announcement? Look at Portia’s face. The only thing that would have made that moment more perfect is if Portia had come on stage with Ellen and they had, well, anything – kissed, hugged, held hands. But, hey, that’s Ellen’s style and I respect that.

Then there is McCain. If that’s not the very definition of uncomfortable, I don’t know what is. The guy looks like he’d rather be making out with Dick Cheney than explaining his position to Ellen’s face. And really, how could he? He is essentially saying, I don’t think you or your love is equal. I don’t think you deserve the same recognition or rights. That’s not just a difference of opinion, sir, that’s a difference in basic human decency. And speaking of basic human decency, what kind of person deliberately goes onto a program for publicity, and then tells the host she is not and should not be equal under the law? I want the free airtime, I’m just not that wild about you, lady. Hypocrite. P.S. Way to not let the old coot off the hook, Ellen. Tim Russert could learn a thing or two from that grilling.

I know this post veers off from the poppy culture I usually obsess focus on, but things like this are just a reminder that as disappointed as I am that Hillary (more than likely) will not win the nomination, this man CANNOT be our next president.

[Hat tip, Rowdy, for the clips!]