Gay Rights and the Obama Administration

In 1969, even civil rights activists were barely aware of the so-called Stonewall Rebellion that began the movement for equal treatment of gays and lesbians in the US. Yesterday, Barack Obama commemorated that event in the White House with 250 gay and lesbian movement leaders who supported him in his presidential campaign but now are critical over his lack of action since becoming President. As a candidate, Obama had promised action to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and to get Congress to take another look at the Defense of Marriage Act. We hear how expectations have clashed with harsh reality and political expediency. Would emphasis on gay rights get in the way of the President's broader agenda? Would Republicans use the issue next year against Democrats in swing districts?