Badash: Former Senator Hiram Monserrate Using Anti-Gay Tactics

by Susan Marie Kovalinsky | March 8, 2010 at 12:46 pm

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Hiram Monserrate, expelled former New York State Senator convicted of domestic abuse, may have some supporters who are going the "anti-gay tactical route," according to David Badash of the New Civil Rights Movement.

For the upcoming special election against Jose Peralta, New York Daily News journalist Elizabeth Benjamin has reported that a flyer has been distributed in various churches within Monserrate's former district.

Monserrate a Member of the "Hate 38"

Monserrate was one of the "Hate 38" so named by gay advocacy groups. A powerful conflict had formed between the New York Senate and gay advocacy since the November vote. A powerful political action committee (PAC) has formed whose goal is to unseat as many of the 38 as is possible.

GLBT advocates now believe Monserrate strategically anticipated a difficult election and needed the help of staunch gay marriage opponent, Sen. Ruben Diaz Sr., who is believed to have helped in Monserrate’s campaign strategy, including the distribution of flyers to area churches.

Benjamin writes, Monserrate was one of eight. There is a big push underway from the gay community to prevent Monserrate from returning to his seat and help elect Peralta, who has voted “yes” on marriage while in the Assembly and says he would do so again if elected to the Senate.”