The Philadelphia Inquirer last weekend surprised many in its editorial space; where there was expected to be a gubernatorial endorsement, the editorial board instead presented the readers with an outline of both Gov. Tom Corbett’s and challenger Tom Wolf’s positions on a number of issues.
While PGN is endorsing Wolf for governor, we thought we’d also offer a rundown of both candidates’ LGBT positions. Corbett has a developed record for us to examine, while Wolf does not, so we also invited both candidates to undergo interviews on their positions on LGBT issues; Wolf took us up on the offer, Corbett did not.
Marriage equality
Wolf is in favor of same-sex marriage, and his company provided domestic-partner benefits prior to the state legalizing marriage equality. Corbett opposes marriage equality and has drawn sharp criticism for seemingly comparing same-sex unions to incestual relationships. However, when Judge John Jones’ ruling legalizing marriage equality in Pennsylvania came down in May, Corbett announced he would abide by the court’s decision and not appeal, despite pressure from the Republican Party and religious leaders.
Nondiscrimination
Pennsylvania is among a handful of states that has marriage equality but no LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination law. If elected, Wolf would advocate for and sign legislation to rectify this issue. In December, Corbett came out in favor of the measure.
Hate crime
In light of recent events, this issue has been put front and center. Wolf told PGN he strongly supports LGBT inclusion in hate-crimes laws and would sign such a measure if elected. Corbett issued a statement condemning the September attack on two gay men in Philadelphia but declined to state his position on LGBT-inclusive hate-crimes legislation.
Funding
Like other communities, our nonprofits get some of their funds from the state. Endangered youth and seniors are issues that not only need funding, but also community leadership. Corbett has funded some of these, chief among them the John C. Anderson LGBT-friendly Senior Apartments. Wolf has stated that he would act similarly. Corbett has been blasted for cutting General Assistance funding, which impacted people with HIV/AIDS; Wolf said he would restore GA funding. Corbett largely level-funded HIV/AIDS programs during his tenure, and Wolf said he will work to ensure adequate funding across the board for HIV/AIDS-related programs.
While Gov. Corbett’s backing of the nondiscrimination law and decision to not appeal the state’s marriage-equality ruling were welcomed additions to his LGBT record, it is not enough to counter his overall approach to LGBT issues during his four years. Instead, Wolf’s pledge to both uphold and advance LGBT equality gets our vote. Regardless of your pick, make sure you take the time Nov. 4 to make your voice be heard.