Gay candidates anticipate breakthroughs on Nov. 4

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By DAVID CRARY – 13 hours ago

In his liberal Colorado district, it's no big deal that Jared Polis is gay. Yet his expected victory Nov. 4 in a congressional race would be a historic milestone and, he hopes, send an encouraging message to gay and lesbian young people nationwide.

Polis, a 33-year-old entrepreneur who made millions creating Internet-based businesses, is the Democratic nominee and overwhelming favorite in the 2nd District encompassing his hometown of Boulder.

If he wins, he would be the first openly gay man to win a seat in Congress as a non-incumbent. There have been at least five other gays and lesbians in Congress, including currently serving Reps. Barney Frank, D-Mass., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., but only Baldwin was open about her sexuality when first elected.

"Sexual orientation has been a non-issue in our district. ...If any of my opponents tried to raise it, it would backfire," Polis said in a telephone interview.

"Outside the district, it has taken on a larger significance," he added. "Young gays and lesbians who might want to run for office look to examples and role models."

Polis is one of a record 100 gay, lesbian and bisexual candidates for federal, state and local offices winning endorsements this year from the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund, a national group founded in 1991 to increase the number of openly gay elected officials. The number has risen — steadily but slowly — to more than 420 out of the nation's roughly 500,000 elected officials.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hUQWDVi4tGl5uYAaXW7P-fXmk4PQD93LRV000