Boehner is Spending Public Money at $520/Hour to Defend Anti-Gay DOMA

Keeping gay people down is worth any amount of money to the right wing

PoliticsApril 2011 • Views: 28,482

To prop up the religious right’s homophobic “Defense of Marriage Act,” House Speaker John Boehner has retained one of the most expensive law firms in the country: REVEALED: Boehner’s High-Priced Lawyer Is Charging the American Taxpayer $520 Per Hour.

This is the Republican idea of fiscal responsibility. No amount of money is too large if it helps keep gay people down.

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159 comments

jamesfirecat Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:14:23am

Have their even been any legal challenges to the DOMA that he’s currently defending it against? Or does that $250 an hour not kick in until one comes up?

brennant Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:15:25am

Ugh.

First song of the day turns out to be “Democratic Circus” by the Talking Heads…

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:16:43am

Yeah!

Greatest Country in the World.

THE GREATEST! like Macho Man Randy Savage.

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:18:28am

We got plenty of money to defend bigoted laws, fight foreign wars, and let the rich “keep” billions made off exported labor. But at the same time, we’re too poor to keep the promises of Medicare and Social Security to our elderly, or to help out the poorest amongst us through Medicaid.

We are a nation that has some very fraked up priorities.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:22:26am

This must be the Boehner jobs program. Pays well at $520/hour.

Why in the world are they wasting there/our time on these issues? Oh right, I keep forgetting that gay marriage is the greatest threat to civilization since the plague. Or something.

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:22:41am

Business as usual.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:22:47am

re: #5 Gus 802

_{Their not there.}

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:23:40am

Now if we look at the trends involving overpriced experts hired by the GOP, how long they catch him with a rentboy?

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:23:59am

re: #6 researchok

Business as usual.

SNAFU

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:24:19am

re: #5 Gus 802

because bigot scum are easily manipulated.

No governance necessary. Just grab some pitchforks and torches and look for the nearest minority

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:25:04am

re: #8 Kragar (proud to be kafir)

Now if we look at the trends involving overpriced experts hired by the GOP, how long they catch him with a rentboy?

Oh I don’t think Boehner’s gay, I think he’s more of the two-wetsuits type :D

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:25:45am

re: #10 WindUpBird

because bigot scum are easily manipulated.

No governance necessary. Just grab some pitchforks and torches and look for the nearest minority

Yep. It’s a diversionary tactic. Play on peoples’ fears and emotions. In this case it’s the gay marriage/religious fear mongering. Use it to bolster the base and gain a few more votes.

iossarian Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:08am

re: #11 WindUpBird

Oh I don’t think Boehner’s gay, I think he’s more of the two-wetsuits type :D

“Two wetsuits.” I would ask for further details but this is a family blog so I won’t.

Glenn Beck's Grand Unifying Theory of Obdicut Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:25am

There’s always good money to be made shoveling back the tide.

I prefer the government didn’t fund it, though.

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:35am

re: #12 Gus 802

Yep. It’s a diversionary tactic. Play on peoples’ fears and emotions. In this case it’s the gay marriage/religious fear mongering. Use it to bolster the base and gain a few more votes.

Especially since, in the last few weeks, the base has gotten a bit shaky due to “victory” over the budget being far less spectacular than predicted.

Slap Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:36am

re: #11 WindUpBird

Oh I don’t think Boehner’s gay, I think he’s more of the two-wetsuits type :D

LOL!

John “Two Wetsuits” Boehner.

I like it. It sings!

Kragar (Antichrist ) Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:38am

re: #11 WindUpBird

Oh I don’t think Boehner’s gay, I think he’s more of the two-wetsuits type :D

I was referring to the guy he hired.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:27:51am

So what’s the gig? Are there actual married couples that say “gay marriage ruined our marriage”? I think I’ve heard some idiots say that. What kind of weirdo would blame their marriage problems on gay marriage?

theheat Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:28:21am

Considering how many jobs the GOPs has created or saved, whatever they’re paying the law firm to keep teh gheys down is worth it.
//

Varek Raith Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:29:13am

520 bucks an hour?
Damn!

Summer Seale Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:29:25am

I’m just so pleased to know that they take gay people so seriously! =)

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:29:46am

re: #13 iossarian

“Two wetsuits.” I would ask for further details but this is a family blog so I won’t.

just google it if your curiosity overtakes you

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:29:59am

“Honey. After seeing our friend Bob get married to his boyfriend Jim I’m afraid our marriage can no longer go on. I can’t stop thinking about them sharing a bed and home together so I’m going to file for a divorce!”

“But I’m not gay.”

Charles Johnson Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:30:11am

re: #20 Varek Raith

520 bucks an hour?
Damn!

Boehner is getting a deal. Their normal rate is $900/hour.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:30:18am

re: #21 Summer

I’m just so pleased to know that they take gay people so seriously! =)

Oh I know!

Maybe someday I can be 3/5ths of a human being in America! Yeah!

iossarian Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:30:18am

re: #18 Gus 802

So what’s the gig? Are there actual married couples that say “gay marriage ruined our marriage”? I think I’ve heard some idiots say that. What kind of weirdo would blame their marriage problems on gay marriage?

I think it’s the kind of thing that people just repeat without ever actually thinking about it, because in fact it doesn’t make any sense at all under any kind of scrutiny.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:30:47am

re: #18 Gus 802

So what’s the gig? Are there actual married couples that say “gay marriage ruined our marriage”? I think I’ve heard some idiots say that. What kind of weirdo would blame their marriage problems on gay marriage?

nope, just bigots making shit up

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:31:14am

re: #17 Kragar (proud to be kafir)

I was referring to the guy he hired.

ahahah got it

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:31:22am

re: #27 WindUpBird

nope, just bigots making shit up

Yep. Sorta like “terrorist anchor babies”.

Varek Raith Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:31:51am

re: #24 Charles

Boehner is getting a deal. Their normal rate is $900/hour.

Wow.
900 bucks an hour is more than I make in two weeks. Where can I get in on the scam???
/Lol

MarkAM Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:32:22am

How nice that they’re reducing their rate in the public interest. Nice pro bono work if you can get it.

re: #24 Charles

Boehner is getting a deal. Their normal rate is $900/hour.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:32:43am

re: #12 Gus 802

Yep. It’s a diversionary tactic. Play on peoples’ fears and emotions. In this case it’s the gay marriage/religious fear mongering. Use it to bolster the base and gain a few more votes.

happened during GWB, happening now. Always happens! Always always.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:33:16am

re: #30 Varek Raith

Wow.
900 bucks an hour is more than I make in two weeks. Where can I get in on the scam???
/Lol

become a republican and win some elections, shake the hands of some good ol’ boys, you’ll be on your way

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:33:54am

re: #32 WindUpBird

happened during GWB, happening now. Always happens! Always always.

The ~~Southern~~ Gay Agenda Strategy

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:34:39am

re: #24 Charles

Boehner is getting a deal. Their normal rate is $900/hour.

Yep. And thats the going rate for that level of attorney. A good federal appellate lawyer ain’t cheap.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:34:42am

re: #29 Gus 802

Yep. Sorta like “terrorist anchor babies”.

that one! That phrase was so insane, I remember sending it to my friends

lol texas GOP

allegro Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:03am

re: #26 iossarian

I think it’s the kind of thing that people just repeat without ever actually thinking about it, because in fact it doesn’t make any sense at all under any kind of scrutiny.

Truly. If you want to have some fun try to tie someone who spouts this line down to EXACTLY what they expect will happen to het marriages and families if gays can marry. They will hem and haw and dance around hilariously before they finally just sputter and walk away. There is no defense. None.

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:45am

Is there an LGF safemail feature anymore?

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:48am

re: #18 Gus 802

So what’s the gig? Are there actual married couples that say “gay marriage ruined our marriage”? I think I’ve heard some idiots say that. What kind of weirdo would blame their marriage problems on gay marriage?

The issue, I think, is not so much that these types believe that gay marriage will ruin THEIR marriage, but that other, more malleable, less strong-in-the-Lord types will get CONFUSED.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:55am

re: #34 Gus 802

The ~~Southern~~ Gay Agenda Strategy

And the closer we get to full gay marriage the harder they will fight, and the more I fear violence against gays in red states in retaliation

Hopefully we’ll see no more Matthew Shephards, but I’m not optimistic

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:55am

$520/hr? Certainly puts into perspective all the Right’s bitching about “overpaid government employees,” doesn’t it?

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:35:56am

It’s all part of the gay agenda! First they push for legalizing gay marriage! Next thing you know they’re teaching our CHILDREN to accept homosexual relationships in kindergarten class! Then they’ll start teaching our CHILDREN sex ed including sex acts like fisting and sodomy! How long before these same Communist-gay-atheist perverts begin their push to marry horses and other animals!

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:36:27am

re: #39 SanFranciscoZionist

The issue, I think, is not so much that these types believe that gay marriage will ruin THEIR marriage, but that other, more malleable, less strong-in-the-Lord types will get CONFUSED.

Bi-marriage-curious?

wrenchwench Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:36:32am

re: #35 GatorAtLaw

Yep. And thats the going rate for that level of attorney. A good federal appellate lawyer ain’t cheap.

Would these guys be adequate? [From the link at the top:]

The U.S. House’s Office of General Counsel already employs a team of exceptionally competent lawyers who are all perfectly capable of drafting and filing a legal brief, and none of these lawyers earn more than a fraction of Clement’s multi-million dollar salary.

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:36:39am

I can see a lot of people here have never hired an attorney on a per-hour basis.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:37:27am

re: #39 SanFranciscoZionist

The issue, I think, is not so much that these types believe that gay marriage will ruin THEIR marriage, but that other, more malleable, less strong-in-the-Lord types will get CONFUSED.

Oh I think confusion is their general state of mind :D

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:37:35am

re: #39 SanFranciscoZionist

The issue, I think, is not so much that these types believe that gay marriage will ruin THEIR marriage, but that other, more malleable, less strong-in-the-Lord types will get CONFUSED.

Yeah. Sorta like thinking that acceptance of gay marriage will make other men or women think it OK to come out of the closet and accept their homosexuality. Yep, “I resisted being gay until they legalized gay marriage!” Right, uh huh.

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:37:38am

re: #41 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

$520/hr? Certainly puts into perspective all the Right’s bitching about “overpaid government employees,” doesn’t it?

Being paid astronomical amounts in the private sector is considered just and good—if you are the kind of person they think should make that kind of money.

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:37:44am

re: #44 wrenchwench

Would these guys be adequate? [From the link at the top:]

Not entirely sure. I doubt the House GC has much, if any, Federal appellate experience. Certainly nowhere near a good private attorney or the solicitor general.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:38:04am

re: #43 RogueOne

Bi-marriage-curious?

is that when two couples get married at the same time, but there’s a guy spying on them going “I wonder what THAT’S all about…”

wrenchwench Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:38:38am

re: #49 GatorAtLaw

Not entirely sure. I doubt the House GC has much, if any, Federal appellate experience. Certainly nowhere near a good private attorney or the solicitor general.

Thanks OK, really. I want them to lose.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:38:51am

Think about it. We’re supposed to be a “free country” and gay marriage is effectively illegal. Illegal? Gay marriage illegal in the year 2011? And human civilization is a lot older than two-thousand and eleven years.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:39:02am

re: #45 GatorAtLaw

I can see a lot of people here have never hired an attorney on a per-hour basis.

hahaha my dad is an attorney :D

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:39:06am

re: #50 WindUpBird

is that when two couples get married at the same time, but there’s a guy spying on them going “I wonder what THAT’S all about…”

I was just talking about the Butters Bi-curious South Park episode the other day. That’s one of my favorites.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:39:36am

re: #45 GatorAtLaw

I can see a lot of people here have never hired an attorney on a per-hour basis.

boy, if he charged $900 an hour, I’d be like “Which Aston Martin shall I borrow from his fleet today?”

Charles Johnson Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:40:08am

re: #45 GatorAtLaw

I can see a lot of people here have never hired an attorney on a per-hour basis.

Yeah — the GOP has to have the absolute best lawyers to keep denying gay people rights. Otherwise the homos might take over.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:40:29am

I’m going to try that for my next gig. “Normally I charge $900/hour but for you I’ll only charge $100/hour.” What a deal.

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:40:54am

re: #52 Gus 802

Think about it. We’re supposed to be a “free country” and gay marriage is effectively illegal. Illegal? Gay marriage illegal in the year 2011? And human civilization is a lot older than two-thousand and eleven years.

Hey, we’re making some progress, just this past December we finally decided that gay soldiers can be openly so when we send them to die on foreign battlefields. Maybe in another 20 years, we’ll get around to letting women serve on the frontlines too!

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:01am

re: #56 Charles

Yeah — the GOP has to have the absolute best lawyers to keep denying gay people rights. Otherwise the homos might take over.

What’s next? Gays in space?

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:03am

re: #55 WindUpBird

boy, if he charged $900 an hour, I’d be like “Which Aston Martin shall I borrow from his fleet today?”

and if he charged $1500/hr he could be handling Eliot Spitzers business…

Randy W. Weeks Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:09am

re: #24 Charles

Boehner is getting a deal. Their normal rate is $900/hour.

Clearly they need a tax cut.

I swear the right is just obsessed with gays. Really friggin’ bizarre.

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:24am

re: #56 Charles

Yeah — the GOP has to have the absolute best lawyers to keep denying gay people rights. Otherwise the homos might take over.

Oh, to be certain, my disdain for Boner’s actions knows no bounds. I’m more amused by the surprise at the attorney’s fee.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:25am

re: #54 RogueOne

I was just talking about the Butters Bi-curious South Park episode the other day. That’s one of my favorites.

BUTTERSSSS!!

I love Butters, especially when he’s the vampire

also when he’s crossdressing as Marjorine, all of Japan’s pixiv art community site (think facebook of manga art) is obsessed with Marjorine

didn’t he have some weather satellite or a supervillian hideout in an episode? :D

allegro Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:41am

re: #47 Gus 802

Yeah. Sorta like thinking that acceptance of gay marriage will make other men or women think it OK to come out of the closet and accept their homosexuality. Yep, “I resisted being gay until they legalized gay marriage!” Right, uh huh.

This is the only argument that actually has some merit to those who believe that homosexuality is evil-horrible-wrong-and-icky. If it is accepted as being OK in the culture, which legalized same-sex marriage would do, it does open those closet doors for those who are in het marriages because it was the “right thing to do” to remain acceptable to their families and social peers. Of course, those marriages aren’t fair to either party but happiness is incidental and even probably sinful in itself.

Varek Raith Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:44am

re: #57 Gus 802

I’m going to try that for my next gig. “Normally I charge $900/hour but for you I’ll only charge $100/hour.” What a deal.

I’ll put that jell-o box on that shelf for 50 bucks an hour. Way less than I normally charge!
XD

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:41:51am

re: #47 Gus 802

Yeah. Sorta like thinking that acceptance of gay marriage will make other men or women think it OK to come out of the closet and accept their homosexuality. Yep, “I resisted being gay until they legalized gay marriage!” Right, uh huh.

The belief seems to be that societal disapproval keeps us from falling into utter moral collapse.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:42:02am

re: #58 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Hey, we’re making some progress, just this past December we finally decided that gay soldiers can be openly so when we send them to die on foreign battlefields. Maybe in another 20 years, we’ll get around to letting women serve on the frontlines too!

True. But they’re still pushing to bring back DADT.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:42:14am

re: #60 RogueOne

and if he charged $1500/hr he could be handling Eliot Spitzers business…

Spitzer? I barely knew her!

where is that guy now? Doesn’t he have some boring talking head TV show nobody watches?

Charles Johnson Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:43:00am

re: #62 GatorAtLaw

Oh, to be certain, my disdain for Boner’s actions knows no bounds. I’m more amused by the surprise at the attorney’s fee.

Who’s surprised? I fully expect the GOP to spend as much money as they need to for this sick, fucked up “cause.”

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:43:30am

re: #68 WindUpBird

Spitzer? I barely knew her!

where is that guy now? Doesn’t he have some boring talking head TV show nobody watches?

Yeah, on CNN, but he chased off his female counterpart.

SanFranciscoZionist Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:44:17am

re: #68 WindUpBird

Spitzer? I barely knew her!

where is that guy now? Doesn’t he have some boring talking head TV show nobody watches?

I think so. They ran some piece a while back about his ‘comeback’, but nothing has come of it.

RogueOne Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:44:36am

Movie is over. Time to go play. Enjoy the rest of the day people.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:44:39am

It’s a damn shame that the Supreme Court never decided a case clearing the road for gay marriage. Not only a shame but an embarrassment.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:44:50am

re: #66 SanFranciscoZionist

The belief seems to be that societal disapproval keeps us from falling into utter moral collapse.

well, when same-sex republicans in congress find out that they can literally get their [redacted] [redacted] by other republicans congress, just like they figuratively get their [redacted] [redacted] by same sex republicans in congress…

then the party just goes away and everyone’s happy. “Why are we fighting this? it’s brilliant!”

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:45:14am

re: #69 Charles

Who’s surprised? I fully expect the GOP to spend as much money as they need to for this sick, fucked up “cause.”

The word ‘overpriced’ starts with reply 8. ;)

But you haven’t seen anything yet. Wait till they try and hire ‘experts’ and ‘consultants.’

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:45:15am

re: #67 Gus 802

True. But they’re still pushing to bring back DADT.

That hit a roadblock recently, when the Joint Chiefs all acknowledged that the predicted “mass hysteria” amongst the ranks, particularly on the battlefield, did not occur. Figure any Republican who tries to reinstate it is going to face just as much resistance as was faced by Democrats in getting it abolished.

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:45:45am

re: #73 Gus 802

It’s a damn shame that the Supreme Court never decided a case clearing the road for gay marriage. Not only a shame but an embarrassment.

The wheels move slowly and all that

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:46:20am

re: #77 researchok

The wheels move slowly and all that

So much for activist judges aye?

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:46:37am

re: #62 GatorAtLaw

Oh, to be certain, my disdain for Boner’s actions knows no bounds. I’m more amused by the surprise at the attorney’s fee.

the national average for an attorney billing hourly is half that. Less than half that if you have the misfortune of being born with a uterus in America.

So I don’t exactly see why you’re amused *shrug*

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:46:38am

re: #78 Gus 802

So much for activist judges aye?

Aye

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:46:43am

re: #75 GatorAtLaw

The word ‘overpriced’ starts with reply 8. ;)

But you haven’t seen anything yet. Wait till they try and hire ‘experts’ and ‘consultants.’

Yeah, the pricetag on this right now is nothing compared to what it’s going to be when they start calling in hired guns to testify about how gay marriage “is a threat to the ‘sanctity’ of marriage” and similar BS.

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:47:06am

re: #80 researchok

Aye

Argh matey. Let’s take the ship to Saint Barts. Argh.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:47:24am

re: #71 SanFranciscoZionist

I think so. They ran some piece a while back about his ‘comeback’, but nothing has come of it.

DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK! *uhh*

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:47:46am

re: #79 WindUpBird

the national average for an attorney billing hourly is half that. Less than half that if you have the misfortune of being born with a uterus in America.

So I don’t exactly see why you’re amused *shrug*

These attorneys aren’t your ‘average’ attorney. How much do you think Gore spent on his attorneys for Bush v. Gore?

The market dictates these rates, because generally these attorneys are very, very good.

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:47:50am

LOL

Why Gus, I didn’t know you cared..
//

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:48:12am

Ugh. Now I’ve done it. Got me thinking about nice places, ships, and the ocean.

Image: stbarts.jpg

Randall Gross Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:48:26am

Meanwhile for the first time a majority of Americans think that Gay marriage should be legal, they are more in favor of that than they are of legalizing pot.

PDF CNN Survey link

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:48:38am

re: #86 Gus 802

Ugh. Now I’ve done it. Got me thinking about nice places, ships, and the ocean.

Image: stbarts.jpg

Paradise

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:49:14am

re: #81 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Yeah, the pricetag on this right now is nothing compared to what it’s going to be when they start calling in hired guns to testify about how gay marriage “is a threat to the ‘sanctity’ of marriage” and similar BS.

How much does a maniac preacher charge by the hour?

or do they just get paid in stolen mystical artifacts

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:49:38am

re: #84 GatorAtLaw

These attorneys aren’t your ‘average’ attorney. How much do you think Gore spent on his attorneys for Bush v. Gore?

The market dictates these rates, because generally these attorneys are very, very good.

well of course they aren’t.

They’re bigot attorneys ^_^

That costs more!

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:49:54am

re: #87 Thanos

Meanwhile for the first time a majority of Americans think that Gay marriage should be legal, they are more in favor of that than they are of legalizing pot.

PDF CNN Survey link

The GOP is tilting against windmills.

Have been for a while.

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:50:01am

re: #89 WindUpBird

How much does a maniac preacher charge by the hour?

or do they just get paid in stolen mystical artifacts

You must, MUST check out the ‘experts’ they had for the California federal gay marriage trial. Had me laughing for a good hour.

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:50:19am

“Your honor, I submit that this dark skinned gentleman is 5/7ths of a human being.”

GatorAtLaw Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:50:30am

re: #90 WindUpBird

well of course they aren’t.

They’re bigot attorneys ^_^

That costs more!

Thats not a bug, its a feature!

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:50:59am

re: #92 GatorAtLaw

You must, MUST check out the ‘experts’ they had for the California federal gay marriage trial. Had me laughing for a good hour.

I remember it hazily, but now I want to go look it up again

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:51:18am

re: #94 GatorAtLaw

Thats not a bug, its a feature!

You ARE a lawyer, hahahaha

that is exactly what my dad would say

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:52:13am

re: #92 GatorAtLaw

You must, MUST check out the ‘experts’ they had for the California federal gay marriage trial. Had me laughing for a good hour.

Yeah, I remember that. I still don’t know how the judge kept a straight face throughout the proceedings.

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:52:49am

Jobs eh. We can’t afford to help get people health care but we can to tell gays and lesbians they can’t get married. Way to prioritize, Boehner.

Varek Raith Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:52:56am

re: #97 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Yeah, I remember that. I still don’t know how the judge kept a straight face throughout the proceedings.

It’s his/her job.
Me? I’d ROFLMAO out of mah chair.

100

Glenn Beck's Grand Unifying Theory of Obdicut Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:53:01am

No opponent to gay marriage has ever been able to demonstrate an actual negative effect on straight people’s marriages.

Because there isn’t one.

101

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:53:18am

re: #97 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Yeah, I remember that. I still don’t know how the judge kept a straight face throughout the proceedings.

I remember thinking it’d make a good My Cousin Vinny-esque zany legal movie, with the Herman Munster guy going “What. The. Balls.”

102

Slap Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:53:49am

re: #97 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Yeah, I remember that. I still don’t know how the judge kept a straight face throughout the proceedings.

Wasn’t this the judge who recently came out? In which case, “keeping a straight face” acquires a whole other level of meaning…..

103

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:53:57am

re: #87 Thanos

Meanwhile for the first time a majority of Americans think that Gay marriage should be legal, they are more in favor of that than they are of legalizing pot.

PDF CNN Survey link

Ha! Put over the top by women. Let’s here it for the women and being progressive or shall I say reasonable.

Do you think marriages between gay and lesbian couples should or should not be recognized by the law as valid, with the same rights as traditional marriages?

Should 45% (Men) vs. 57% (Women)
Should not 54% (Men) 46% (Women)

So the greatest opposition to gay marriage is found in men.

104

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:55:37am

re: #103 Gus 802

Ha! Put over the top by women. Let’s here it for the women and being progressive or shall I say reasonable.

So the greatest opposition to gay marriage is found in men.

Education also affects the answer. Those with some college are in favor while those with no college are against. Tea Party members are also opposed. Right. The Tea Party is all about liberty and freedom.

105

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:56:02am

re: #100 Obdicut

No opponent to gay marriage has ever been able to demonstrate an actual negative effect on straight people’s marriages.

Because there isn’t one.

Well, yeah. I mean gay marriage has been legalized in both DC and Maryland which surround me. I still feel attracted to women as I did before. The people who argue that gay marriage weakens heterosexuality are some of the most sexually insecure people ever.

106

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:56:36am

re: #102 Slap

Wasn’t this the judge who recently came out? In which case, “keeping a straight face” acquires a whole other level of meaning…

Yeah, IIRC the judge declared that he’d been in a same-sex relationship 10 years ago, which the bigots who lost claims is grounds for having the ruling thrown out.

107

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:57:20am

re: #104 Gus 802

Education also affects the answer. Those with some college are in favor while those with no college are against. Tea Party members are also opposed. Right. The Tea Party is all about liberty and freedom.

Northeast, Midwest, and West: For
South: Against

Urban and Suburban: For
Rural: Against

108

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:57:39am

re: #107 Gus 802

Northeast, Midwest, and West: For
South: Against

Urban and Suburban: For
Rural: Against

Same as it ever was.

109

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:58:01am

re: #92 GatorAtLaw

also I have heard from multiple lawyers that My Cousin Vinny is the only law movie that got the legal stuff right

110

Wozza Matter? Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:58:17am

re: #108 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Same as it ever was.

Shhhhh.

Youll have David Byrne after you.

111

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:58:48am

re: #110 wozzablog

Shhh.

Youll have David Byrne after you.

WHAT GOOD ARE NOTEBOOKS?!?!?!

112

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:59:31am

re: #110 wozzablog

Shhh.

Youll have David Byrne after you.

Remove the water. Carry the water.

113

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 10:59:59am

Coming up next, “Born in the USA”.

114

Charles Johnson Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:00:58am

re: #106 Targetpractice, Worst of Both Worlds

Yeah, IIRC the judge declared that he’d been in a same-sex relationship 10 years ago, which the bigots who lost claims is grounds for having the ruling thrown out.

Strange - nobody ever accuses heterosexual judges of bias when they rule against gay marriage.

115

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:01:33am

re: #104 Gus 802

Education also affects the answer. Those with some college are in favor while those with no college are against. Tea Party members are also opposed. Right. The Tea Party is all about liberty and freedom.

Social change is a tricky thing.

A lot of people are afraid of changing the status quo. They see it as a beginning to undermine those things they hold dear. In other words, it isn’t as if they want to deny rights- they see it as a proactive move to defend their rights that are under imaginary assault.

It isn’t as if gay marriage will affect them- it is based in the fear that maybe, somehow, a legal document will be a causation of homosexuality.

Thin thinking.

116

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:01:40am

There was a great story I read on here about a legislator that had favored civil unions but not marriage in his state of Maryland but ended up going full out in favor of marriage after he saw just how hateful many opponents of gay marriage are. The thing that I think angers me most about them is that they argue that gays/lesbians and their allies are the real hateful ones. All I see are gay and lesbian couples who want to be treated fairly and equally under the law. It is silly to argue law in biblical terms since after the bible was used to justify banning interracial marriages for generations. I still weirds me a little knowing that my parents and I am sure many of you were quite alive when Loving V Virginia was decided by the USSC to be unconstituional in 1967. I really think that the generation of my children is going to look back on this issue the way most of us do Jim Crow.

117

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:02:57am

re: #115 researchok

Social change is a tricky thing.

A lot of people are afraid of changing the status quo. They see it as a beginning to undermine those things they hold dear. In other words, it isn’t as if they want to deny rights- they see it as a proactive move to defend their rights that are under imaginary assault.

It isn’t as if gay marriage will affect them- it is based in the fear that maybe, somehow, a legal document will be a causation of homosexuality.

Thin thinking.

Higher education also exposes people to different cultures and lifestyles that they otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to. So it’s more than just the education itself but the environment that higher education provides.

118

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:03:50am

re: #117 Gus 802

Higher education also exposes people to different cultures and lifestyles that they otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to. So it’s more than just the education itself but the environment that higher education provides.

Definitely agree with this.

119

calochortus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:05:28am

I’ve got a deal for the anti-marriage folks. Let the government recognize same sex marriages and no one will make your church or your god recognize them.

What? Legalizing same sex marriage will do precisely that without any special exemptions? But, but…

120

calochortus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:06:17am

re: #119 calochortus

Oh, and quit looking in your neighbors’ windows, for heaven’s sake. Get a better hobby.

121

Wozza Matter? Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:06:55am

re: #120 calochortus

Oh, and quit looking in your neighbors’ windows, for heaven’s sake. Get a better hobby.

No.

122

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:06:57am

re: #117 Gus 802

Higher education also exposes people to different cultures and lifestyles that they otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to. So it’s more than just the education itself but the environment that higher education provides.

‘Environment’ is the key word/idea.

That isn’t to say higher education is the answer to all ills in the world (clearly, it is not), but in the case where culture difference is the defining factor (as opposed to behavior, as in cannibalism, terror, etc) higher education is critical.

This isn’t a political agenda.

123

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:07:07am

re: #119 calochortus

I’ve got a deal for the anti-marriage folks. Let the government recognize same sex marriages and no one will make your church or your god recognize them.

What? Legalizing same sex marriage will do precisely that without any special exemptions? But, but…

They’ve tried that but it doesn’t seem to cut through the paranoia. They think they’ll be sued to accept and/or perform gay marriages.

124

Varek Raith Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:07:32am

re: #120 calochortus

Oh, and quit looking in your neighbors’ windows, for heaven’s sake. Get a better hobby.

It’s not my fault those two chicks are hot.
And that they don’t close the shades.
///

125

Targetpractice Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:08:10am

re: #114 Charles

Strange - nobody ever accuses heterosexual judges of bias when they rule against gay marriage.

At this point, it seems the only grounds they have for getting their circus trial of a case any further in appeals is by claiming misconduct on his part by saying he should have recused himself.

126

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:08:51am

re: #122 researchok

‘Environment’ is the key word/idea.

That isn’t to say higher education is the answer to all ills in the world (clearly, it is not), but in the case where culture difference is the defining factor (as opposed to behavior, as in cannibalism, terror, etc) higher education is critical.

This isn’t a political agenda.

Works in Egypt and Iran. The leaders of the modern opposition tend to be college students.

127

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:08:59am

re: #114 Charles

Strange - nobody ever accuses heterosexual judges of bias when they rule against gay marriage.

Well that’s “different”. But yeah I remember the religious right railing against Judge Walker saying that he was biased because he was a gay man yet at the same time, you know that many of those same people would have been just fine with a judge with their religious beliefs making the decision.

128

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:09:39am

re: #123 Gus 802

They’ve tried that but it doesn’t seem to cut through the paranoia. They think they’ll be sued to accept and/or perform gay marriages.

I would make a ‘some lawyer is going to make a fortune with a class action lawsuit’ joke, but I won’t.

Barely.

129

Slap Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:10:41am

re: #114 Charles

Strange - nobody ever accuses heterosexual judges of bias when they rule against gay marriage.

Yeah, somehow the Magical Balance Fairy never gets invoked in such instances….

I can’t remember if it was linked here or elsewhere, but I found this handy pie chart that details the horrific consequences of making marriage legal for gays:

What will happen if gay marriage is legalized?

Apologies for the possible re-post, but is seems fitting in this thread…

130

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:11:53am

re: #126 Gus 802

Works in Egypt and Iran. The leaders of the modern opposition tend to be college students.

Glad you brought that up.

My fear though is that education is only half the remedy.

Local and regional edia influence is the other half.

‘Nuff said, for the moment.

131

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:12:51am

Are you for or against gay marriage?

• Taliban: Against
• Al-Qaeda: Against
• Religious Right: Against

132

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:12:53am

If anyone needs to prove that gay marriage doesn’t ruin the family. One can only look at Canada. Men and women are gasp still starting families there. Legalizing gay marriage hurts no one. And despite what its detractors say, it is nothing like allowing a man to marry a dog (Santorum) or marry a box turtle (Cornyn)

133

calochortus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:14:03am

re: #123 Gus 802

They’ve tried that but it doesn’t seem to cut through the paranoia. They think they’ll be sued to accept and/or perform gay marriages.

I know, but the fact is I’d be really surprised if I could waltz into a Catholic church and demand a nuptial mass, or make the Mormons perform a sealing ceremony for me. When I was planning my daughter’s wedding I read posts on a planning website about people whose own churches wouldn’t marry them for one reason or another. That line of reasoning is an obvious non-starter.

134

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:14:32am

re: #130 researchok

Opposition educational levels notwithstanding, I don’t have high hopes for gay rights in the ME in the near future.

Culture, media and religious influence are powerful influences.

135

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:15:48am

re: #131 Gus 802

Are you for or against gay marriage?

• Taliban: Against
• Al-Qaeda: Against
• Religious Right: Against

//

Not so sarcastic.

It’s only a level of degree that separates those players.

136

Wozza Matter? Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:16:32am

re: #132 HappyWarrior

If anyone needs to prove that gay marriage doesn’t ruin the family. One can only look at Canada. Men and women are gasp still starting families there. Legalizing gay marriage hurts no one. And despite what its detractors say, it is nothing like allowing a man to marry a dog (Santorum) or marry a box turtle (Cornyn)

If gay people want to get divorced and be as misrable as the rest of us - good luck to them :p

137

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:16:36am

re: #134 researchok

Opposition educational levels notwithstanding, I don’t have high hopes for gay rights in the ME in the near future.

Culture, media and religious influence are powerful influences.

Oh. I didn’t mean that college students in Egypt or Iran with reference to gays right. Just that it’s a start or a beginning towards modernity. I don’t see any fast changes coming soon and both of those countries (including the college students) would have to start with women’s rights.

138

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:17:58am

re: #137 Gus 802

Oh. I didn’t mean that college students in Egypt or Iran with reference to gays right. Just that it’s a start or a beginning towards modernity. I don’t see any fast changes coming soon and both of those countries (including the college students) would have to start with women’s rights.

3 pointer.

It always- always- starts with women’s rights.

Very Freudian. Seriously.

139

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:18:26am

re: #138 researchok

3 pointer.

It always- always- starts with women’s rights.

Very Freudian. Seriously.

Beginning with “the mother”?

140

Wozza Matter? Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:18:45am

Laters all.

141

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:20:12am

I think the great thing college gives you is experience with different types of people. It’s funny. People like Horowitz act like college brainwash students and only give them one side of an argument but even though I am to the left and was at the start of my academic career, I still find my pre-concieved notions of history and other things being challenged. When I was in high school, I think I was guilty of thinking in absolutes but now I think with this experience I tend to seek out nuance and not just accept it but value it. Can’t really speak about diversity and its affect on me since it’s always been there for me from my first day of kindergarten.

142

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:21:09am

re: #139 Gus 802

Beginning with “the mother”?

Yes, absolutely.

On the one hand, mother is considered, in the abstract sense, Madonna like. On the other hand, sons (and daughters) see mothers devalued, often abused and always subservient.

The dichotomy is stunning and in the end, most destructive to men.

143

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:23:59am

And for the religious right that’s always babbling about Israel:

Same-sex marriage in Israel

Same-sex marriage cannot legally be performed in Israel, because only government-recognized religious authorities — all of whom disallow same-sex marriage — may officiate marriages. There are no provisions for civil or secular marriages in Israel. However, foreign marriages, including same-sex marriages, are recognized in Israel. Furthermore, like unmarried opposite-sex couples, same-sex couples in Israel can access nearly all of the rights of marriage in the form of unregistered cohabitation status, akin to common-law marriage. According to a 2009 poll, most of the Israeli population supports same-sex marriage.

A poll conducted in August 2009 found that 61% of Israelis supported same-sex marriage, with 31% opposed. Furthermore, 60% supported joint adoption by same-sex couples, with 34% opposed.

It’s not perfect but it’s certainly more progressive than anything we’d see coming from the GOP and the RR. There’s a huge cognitive dissonance that takes place between the conservative religious right in the USA compared to the progressiveism of Israel.

144

calochortus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:24:53am

re: #141 HappyWarrior

I think the great thing college gives you is experience with different types of people. It’s funny. People like Horowitz act like college brainwash students and only give them one side of an argument but even though I am to the left and was at the start of my academic career, I still find my pre-concieved notions of history and other things being challenged. When I was in high school, I think I was guilty of thinking in absolutes but now I think with this experience I tend to seek out nuance and not just accept it but value it. Can’t really speak about diversity and its affect on me since it’s always been there for me from my first day of kindergarten.

See, there’s your problem. We must all think in absolutes. There is no middle ground, and once you see shades of gray the world order dissolves.//

145

researchok Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:25:22am

re: #143 Gus 802

And for the religious right that’s always babbling about Israel:

Same-sex marriage in Israel

It’s not perfect but it’s certainly more progressive than anything we’d see coming from the GOP and the RR. There’s a huge cognitive dissonance that takes place between the conservative religious right in the USA compared to the progressiveism of Israel.

Good catch.

It doesn’t have to be ‘perfect’. It has to work for the society as a whole.

Perfection takes a bit more time.

146

Stanley Sea Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:26:59am

IbnOmar2005 Ibn Omar
by acarvin

Hilarious advertisement in shopping glass window. #Libya #Gaddafi #Feb17 yfrog.com

147

HappyWarrior Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:29:23am

re: #143 Gus 802

And for the religious right that’s always babbling about Israel:

Same-sex marriage in Israel

It’s not perfect but it’s certainly more progressive than anything we’d see coming from the GOP and the RR. There’s a huge cognitive dissonance that takes place between the conservative religious right in the USA compared to the progressiveism of Israel.

Shit, that’s one of the reasons why I’m an unabashed support of Israel and see nothing contradictory about being a liberal and supporting it. I also like to point out to right wingers who whine about allowing gays to serve openly in the military that it’s worked just fine for the ISraelis and Brits, who are top allies.

148

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:34:13am

Heck. Some American righties are even against public breastfeeding.

149

Lidane Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:46:22am

re: #53 WindUpBird

hahaha my dad is an attorney :D

So was mine. I don’t care what level of attorney they are, $900/hr is still expensive.

150

BishopX Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:50:30am

re: #143 Gus 802

I’m sorry, but did you just say that marriage in Israel is progressive? Ottoman empire era religious courts ruling on marriage is progressive? American Jews being unable to get married in Israel because the courts don’t recognize their synagogues is progressive? Being unable to get an inter-faith marriage performed in the country is progressive?

There are many great things about the Israeli government. Its marriage laws are not one of them.

151

Glenn Beck's Grand Unifying Theory of Obdicut Tue, Apr 19, 2011 11:58:24am

re: #150 BishopX

The laws allowing marriages to be performed are regressive and hidebound.

The laws allowing marriages to be recognized are progressive and liberal.

152

BishopX Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:05:25pm

re: #151 Obdicut

The laws allowing marriages to be performed are regressive and hidebound.

The laws allowing marriages to be recognized are progressive and liberal.

Which means that only the people wealthy enough to travel outside of Israel to get married can take advantage of the progressive parts of the law. What’s the nearest country to permit same sex marriage? Spain? South Africa? So the price of gay marriage is effectively two plane tickets and a hotel stay. I’ll bet that’s within easy reach of most of the population. Real progressive.

153

Glenn Beck's Grand Unifying Theory of Obdicut Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:12:32pm

re: #152 BishopX

Yeah, I think Spain would be closest. So it’s definitely still unfair. You’re right to criticize the marriage system in general. However, it’s possible to be a gay, married couple in Israel with all the benefits of marriage. It’s not in the US, and even most countries in Europe have, at most, strong civil partnerships.

154

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:13:27pm

re: #152 BishopX

Which means that only the people wealthy enough to travel outside of Israel to get married can take advantage of the progressive parts of the law. What’s the nearest country to permit same sex marriage? Spain? South Africa? So the price of gay marriage is effectively two plane tickets and a hotel stay. I’ll bet that’s within easy reach of most of the population. Real progressive.

Way better than we have it here :)

155

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:14:51pm

re: #148 Gus 802

Heck. Some American righties are even against public breastfeeding.

well, you can’t let them out of the HOUSE, what are you, nuts? Then they’ll start thinking they have rights!

156

Gus Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:15:52pm

re: #155 WindUpBird

well, you can’t let them out of the HOUSE, what are you, nuts? Then they’ll start thinking they have rights!

Next thing you know we’ll have women seeing other women’s breasts and they’ll turn into LESBIANS!

157

WINDUPBIRD DISEASE [S.K.U.M.M.] Tue, Apr 19, 2011 12:17:38pm

re: #156 Gus 802

Next thing you know we’ll have women seeing other women’s breasts and they’ll turn into LESBIANS!

//

*clutches framed 8x10 glossy of Phyllis Schlafly*

*faints, crumples to ground*

158

SidewaysQuark Tue, Apr 19, 2011 1:11:22pm

Back in the Dark Ages when I was in Jr. High School, and anti-gay slurs were all the rage, I never imagined I could be earning $520/hr for it…

159

Walking Spanish Down the Hall Tue, Apr 19, 2011 1:19:13pm

re: #158 SidewaysQuark

Back in the Dark Ages when I was in Jr. High School, and anti-gay slurs were all the rage, I never imagined I could be earning $520/hr for it…

You should have become a lawyer instead of a scientist.

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