One wild aspect of elected office is way Republicans use LGBTQ politicians as a confessional booth.
Nearly every day in Montana, Republicans would apologize for their votes, tell me they wish the culture war would move on, etc.
But rarely would they actually change their vote.
Women know that men don’t scheme to “dress like girls” to assault them.
They do it every day in broad daylight. And the ones in power protect each other to keep it quiet.
Just ask the House Ethics Committee. Or the President-elect of the United States.
Leave women alone.
There is a push among some orgs, "moderate" legislators, and even trans people to "give up the sports issue" in hopes that will stop hate.
I have watched moderates try this in 23 state houses.
It doesn't work. There's no amount of give you can offer that stops them from taking.
I've had similar experiences with my GOP colleagues. They vote against LGBTQ+ rights and then tell me, "You know I don't really believe that nonsense. It's nothing against you."
I still work with them if it means getting things done for Vermont. But this is the reality.
Beshear knows intuitively what so few Dems grasp.
You can take political decisions that are politically controversial, and even SHOULD, if it fits in your value set.
Voters prefer candidates who are genuine and are more willing to forgive positions than lack of sincerity.