Colorado House Chooses Gay Speaker

In yet another historic first for LGBT politics, Colorado's House has chosen an openly gay man as its new speaker.

Jubilant Democrats nominated Mark Ferrandino as speaker of the House on Thursday, the first time in Colorado history a gay lawmaker has presided over the chamber. The nomination, he said, was a victory not only for gays but also for every special-ed kid who was ever picked on and bullied. In his four years as a state legislator, the Denver lawmaker has earned a reputation as a budget wonk and a practical joker who wears his heart on his sleeve. Ferrandino struggled Thursday to hold back his tears. "I told myself I wasn't going to cry, but as a kid growing up in New York who had a learning disability, who was in special education, who struggled a lot, a kid who was picked on, called names, to be where I am and have your support, that is awesome; it is humbling," he said.

Ferrandino is the fourth currently presiding openly gay speaker of a state chamber.  Colorado now has eight openly gay state legislators, including Ferrandino. (Tipped by JMG reader Bob)