Openly gay Wisconsin Representative
Tammy Baldwin says she is considering a run to succeed Wisconsin
Senator Herb Kohl, who announced on Friday he would not seek a fifth
term in 2012.
According
to the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund blog Gay Politics, sources
close to Baldwin say she is “very likely” to run for the seat.
Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the
Victory Fund, a group devoted to promoting openly gay elected
officials, said Baldwin's campaign would be a top priority for the
group.
“This would obviously be a top
priority for us. Tammy Baldwin has been an outstanding
congresswoman, and she'd be an outstanding senator,” Wolfe said.
Baldwin is among the four openly gay
lawmakers serving in the House. Also gay are David
Cicilline of Rhode Island, Barney Frank of Massachusetts and
Jared Polis of Colorado.
The 49-year-old Baldwin was first
elected to represent the people of Wisconsin's 2nd
congressional district in 1999. For 8 years prior she served in the
Wisconsin Assembly.
“This would be a remarkable milestone
for LGBT Americans,” Wolfe added. “Congresswoman Baldwin is one
of the most admired officials I know. She would have the strong
support of those who want to see our economy work for all Americans,
and who believe that all voices deserve a place at the table.”
Baldwin is a perennial favorite among
her constituents – she won 63% percent of the vote on November 2 –
but remains untested in a statewide election.