Barney Frank Calls Mike Michaud's Coming Out Important For Maine Gay Teens
- By
- On Top Magazine Staff
- | November 05, 2013
Former Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank on Monday lauded Maine Rep. Mike Michaud's coming out gay.
In an editorial running in newspapers throughout Maine, Michaud, a Democrat, responded to rumors he might be gay by saying, “Yes I am. But why should it matter?”
The 58-year-old Michaud is hoping to unseat Maine Governor Paul LePage, a Republican, next year.
Frank, who has the distinction of being the first openly gay member of Congress and the first to enter a marriage with a member of the same sex, said that his sexuality “had no negative effect with my colleagues” and predicted a similar experience for Michaud.
“It will not detract at all from his ability” as a congressman, Frank said.
“What Mike did today is very important for the gay teenager in northern Maine where he is best known and where he is so well-respected and admired.”
Colorado Rep. Jared Polis, who is also openly gay, tweeted his support: “Congratulations to my colleague @RepMikeMichaud on coming out, living honestly; he becomes 7th openly #lgbt Representative in House.”