You have to meet Congressional candidate, Tony Woods, who was discharged under Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Understandably, people in the LGBT community aren't very happy with elected officials these days. The mess in the New York State Senate and the DOMA brief have left a sour taste.

But, if you're disillusioned, meet Tony Woods.

A couple months ago, a friend asked me if I'd have coffee with his buddy who was running for Congress in the seat to be vacated by Ellen Tauscher, California's 10th CD. I had just gotten out of the hospital after my appendicitis, so wasn't inclined. But, when I heard Tony's story -- that he was an African-American West Point grad, Iraq Vet, who got discharged because of Don't Ask, Don't Tell -- I knew I had to meet him. And, I was very, very impressed. Since then, Tony's campaign has really kicked into gear. Here's his website.

Today, Tony was in DC to do several events. He stopped by my place for a quick chat. I really wanted a video interview so people could get the sense of him. I meet a lot of politicians, but this guy is the real deal. Tony has quite a life story -- and lack of health care and "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" are not just issues for him. He's lived them.



If you want to help Tony, his ActBlue page is here. This is a special election. It won't be a long campaign. Several of Tony's primary opponents are incumbent California politicians. If you've been following the news, it's clear California is one big mess. Incumbent pols aren't the most popular people out there. So, there's an opening. And, it would be great to have someone in Congress who isn't afraid to be who he is and to stand up for what he believes. In so many ways, Tony is just what Congress needs.

And, very importantly, Petey, who is an excellent judge of character, loved Tony: