HRC/LOGO: Richardson's Bad "Choice"
Bill Richardson
* What he wore: dark suit, white shirt, red tie.
* Number of applause lines: Four
* How he handled the marriage question: "The nation, I believe, is on a path to full inclusion. A president must lead that effort. In my judgement, which is achievable is civil unions with full marriage rights, with domestic partnership. I believe that's achievable. ... I am in this business to get things done, to lead, to pass legislation. ... In my heart, I'm doing what is achievable. And I'm not there yet. And the country isn't there yet, New Mexico isn't there yet. That doesn't mean I'm closed on this issue ... You do what is achievable."
* On Don't Ask, Don't Tell: "When you have an America that is asking men and women to fight and die, the last thing you need to do is give them a lecture on sexual orientation."
* References to gay friends/staff/associates: "I've appointed cabinet members who are gay. ... all through my administration."
* How he handles the 'Maricon' question from his '06 Imus interview: "I meant no harm in saying that. I apologize. It was, you know, one of those exchanges that I was caught off guard. ... But I think you should look at my actions and not words."
* Carlsonism: "Governor, I think everyone gets one mistake on Imus. Since I myself made one."
* Etheridgisms: "I've lived in your state. In Santa Fe, such a beautiful, beautiful place. Tell me, how's the bark-beatle infestation?"
* How he connected the civil rights struggles of Hispanics and gays. "As a Hispanic I grew up thinking that because of my darker skin, I thought I wasn't equal. i understand that issue of inequality. i've always thoght that every human being desires equal rights."
* Best received line: "When you have an America that is asking men and women to fight and die, the last thing you need to do is give them a lecture on sexual orientation."
* Worst received line: Responding to a question about whether homosexuality is a choice or genetic, "It's a choice." [[Richardson later clarified this comment, saying in a statement released after the forum: "Let me be clear -- I do not believe that sexual orientation or gender identity happen by choice. But I'm not a scientist, and the point I was trying to make is that no matter how it happens, we are all equal and should be treated that way under the law."]]
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