Is passage of statewide LGBT civil rights more likely with Brian Sims’ victory?

“No. Unfor-tunately, people aren’t ready for that type of change. This isn’t New York. His victory is a beautiful thing. He gets big-time credit for the achievement. But everyone isn’t as open and embracing as one would like. It’s sad.”

“No. It’s still tough because so much of the state is so conservative. His victory is symbolic, but not practical. He’ll be criticized for trying to push a personal agenda, so I’m not very optimistic.”

“Yes. It definitely helps. Now there will be someone in the legislature who can explain [the need for] gay rights by relating it to his personal experience. I think he may get some backlash. There’s always that possibility. But overall, I think his presence will bring enough support to pass the law.”

“Yes. Obviously he’ll want to change everybody’s opinion. He’ll work hard at it, because he’s gay. I think it will be his top priority. He won’t let it go. Eventually they’ll have to pass the law. He’ll keep pushing it until they do.”