Obama Wins: Thoughts?

It's official -- Barack Obama is the new President of the United States of America -- and we want to know what you think.

Use the space on the comments section below to have your voice heard on how you feel about our new President.   What emotions are you feeling?  What thoughts are going through your head?   Who was the first person you called, and why?  If you were with others, tell us what you all did when it became official that Obama was our new President?  What part of the United States are you in?

Also -- what were your thoughts on McCain's speech?  Obama's acceptance speech?

It's time for your gay and lesbian voices to be heard.  Let the world listen.

(Images courtesy of Getty)

Comments

[John]

I feel the same way I felt when George W Bush became president 8 years ago

[james]

OMG What Do People think they are doing?I'm now worried for the true USA that is still out there..I'm Gay an it was anopen book on who i was voting for.Now for the next four years we are up for hell on earth..

[StevenX]

I have never been prouder to be an American. The fact that the majority of America rose above racism so soundly today gives me hope that it can also rise above homophobia, and misogyny, and other prejudice, to realize that we are indeed all created equal.

[Jace]

I think these next four years are going to suck! Socialism is not American!!! NObama! However, congrats for being the first black president.

[David]

As a Black, gay American I hope this is the first step to hedge some of the racism in this country. I also hope that this encourages alot of pride in anyone who has been told they can't do something and the odds are stacked against them to get up and do something positive for themselves as well as others :)

[Mark]

I feel like this is MY president.

[Felipe]

I agree with the fact that the majority of Americans were not too biased toward a white president. I am proud for the president and for the gay community, who hope to see change as he so feverishly preached it. Yay for Obama!

[JhayeJarvis]

When Baden stated he would not support gay marriage, but did say that all gays are equal and Americans i cried that he could use reason over his beliefs. and tonight when Obama did not "Skip" over gay's in his speech but said it with meaning that "All" Americans deserve the same liberties and respects I cried again. I tried not to, but it is very humbling to be addressed fully for who I am, a Gay American, not like any time before where i was just a white American male from the repressive Alabama south. Thanks to all who voted and regardless of your candidate tonight did not stoop to "hate".

[Rob]

Welcome to hell, ladies. The man is going to end the world as we know it. Much as he tried to downplay Muslim ties....I have a feeling they will be playing a big part in future of our country. Welcome to socialism and say goodbye to more of your taxpayer money. I didn't like what Bush did....but I think you're all gonna regret this decision at some point in your life someday.

[Kidd Kasper]

His acceptance speech was very encouraging if it is truely how he feels. Not only does he face the problems passed to him by Bush (2 wars, economic woes, etc) but he will also be under pressure and review to perform well being that he is the first black president. I think the next four years will be very interesting.

[Brian]

If he obvious lied during his candidacy, wait till he is in office.

[AL]

Black president, black president....listen to yourselves! It finally comes out...this was as an exercise in political correctness...not the most important job in the planet. Studid, emotional, childish, cultish Americans....how sad.

[steve]

If he ends the world as we know it....its going to be good for all of us, GOD KNOWS it sucks like it is!
This is the best thing to have happened to us since Clinton left office.

[Brandon Sills]

stop playing the race card on this guy, seriously. i embrace him as a man who will get the job done to fix us after 8 years of true torment. you wanted bush, and you got him. now it's our turn to take this back and work together to fix it.

i'm so happy i could cry honestly. for the first time in 8 years, i'm so happy i smiled for more than 5 seconds.

[scott]

I'm really torn. This is a great day for America and blacks and civil rights for some minorities. But NOT FOR US! Tonight, after the election I started reading the news on line. Four more states have passed initiatives to ban same-sex marriage, ban adoptions, ban civil unions. This is a sad day for the gay community. These initiatives changed the stated constitutions and became laws that the courts cannot overturn.

[Johann Ivan]

Well now, it's about time. Goodbye regressive hate filled greedy self-absorbed radical politics and HELLO to a new progressive / left movement.

Not only did Obama win, the GOP was beaten into submission at all levels.

The Southern Strategy is finally dead. The rest of the country decided it's time to move on.

[Johann Ivan]

Obama: In an outside public park.

McSame: At the Biltmore.

Any questions?

Goodbye Bush. Goodbye GOP. Good riddance.

[Rich]

I think its a good thing for blacks, but the main point is that most states dont protect gay rights at work. I guess maybe he will know what its about being treated diffrent since he is a black man, I doubt it though

[Tom]

Who cares as a gay american I have gain nothing. I know one thing i will not be going to war thank god they agree not to let gays go to war, but it would be one hot party if we could go.

[Doyle]

For the first time in my life, I am NOT proud of America! ( a play on Michelle Obama's words) For the first time in a few decades, America has ignored the record or lack thereof of a candidate and voted him to the Presidency. I am truly afraid of what will happen to the United States now that a sweet talking socialist-marxist leaning (in his own words) President is now in charge. The only redeeming hope I have is that members of the gay community now have what they think they want. When they don't get what they want from a democratic white house and congress, they will no longer have the Republicans to blame. I hope America is ready to loose many of the freedoms we have enjoyed and ready to be raped in their wallets by the never satisfied federal government.

[centralisland]

WOW, with so many issues on everyone's mind this historical day, it seems sad that no one mentions how fortunate you ALL are to have a new opportunity for change.
Just when things seem to improve for all of us as g//l/b/t, we continue to face challenges everyday. However, this is about one of the greatest countries on the planet getting a fresh unified go of things. COME ON AMERICA, embrace this man Barack Obama, he is incredible to say the least and actually damn hot if i do say so myself.

PS I think your about done with the Bush's...
Cheers from Canada

[Julio]

Congratulation to USA for his new elected president, and is great to see a big change on the minds of the people in that country especially the youngest, a lot of people hate the USA but I can give BAD wishes to anyone so hope to see that big nation to evolucionate in a better way...

[Brian]

I think Obama is not ready to be president. He just stands as symbol of change as an African American President. People we see the real Obama very soon. He is more hype then substance. Lets face the facts he not going to change America or the world.

[Brian]

I think he we be great disappointment to the American people and they will have had regreted electing him. The only reason he got elected was because ppl were sick of the the Bush and the admin. It will be a wake up call for America and for the Republicans. I really cant believe ppl think this man is going to be a great president . "he will not be. you will see." Just at the right place and the right time. we had president everybody hated and blamed for all the problem in American. Then blamed the Republicians for all the problems in American, and bad economy. Will he do any better for America. I doubt it .

[Justin Simon]

I can now honestly say, for one of the first times in my life, I am proud to be an American. This man gave me chills and tears listening to him speak BEFORE he was elected, and his speech topped it off for me. This is the beginning of a new era and the new generation has spoken. Go-Bama! YES WE CAN!!!

[Mark]

I'm surprised at the hateful posts here. It is always sad when white glbt people turn out to be as biased as straight white people. It also surprises me that people are still caught up in spreading lies and fear that I've got to believe is driven by racism. I for one am proud that the American voters saw through the mean and angry tactics of the GOP candidate and voted for change and hope. That's Democracy and that's what we all love. If your candidate didn't win, can't you at least be proud that you live in a place where the people decide these things? I am.

[Doyle]

In resonse to the Canadian, I am NOT ready to embrace a "change" to socialism that Obama touts. I will fight taht with every fiber of my being. We still have our freedom to speak here and i will speak LOUDLY!
American looses tonight. The world looses tonight. Israel looses tonight. Freedom and Prosperity looses tonight to the ideas of socialized medicine, government dependance/slavery, wealth redistribution. The only redeeming value tonight is if it serves as a wake up call to clear thinking individuals who will wake up from the drunken stooper of the koolaid they have been drinking for the past several months of the Obama campaign and realize what they have done and keep Obama, the wicked with of the west, Pelosi, and Dingy Harry Reed accountable for their actions. Start supporting now congressional candidates that will unseat these idiots now. It will take a lot of hard work but can be done.

[Salem]

No one can doubt that history has been made ringing across the nation and even further across the sea. Americans have made the right choice. We have proven that we can break down the barrier of race, electing an African American. One who voices hope and stirs that passion of patriotism. One who has reach deep into my soul and makes me believe that we live in a nation which believes in equality for all its citizens.

We have lost battles against gay equality, but let us not give up on the war. Let us once more as community, as a nation unite as we have done these past few months and strive for change that is the heart of America. Equality and opportunity for all citizens.

Even in the eyes of my own opposition on gay marriage, I am American and should not be allowed to feel so, say so, nor represent without shame if I could not allow equality for everyone.

[Tattootom]

Ive been out for years and Yes we have made progress but at whos expense ??? I heard for years you all cram it in our faces,,, the community was better when we worked on our characterand not what was between our legs as for Obama I think Revelations in the Bible is a good indicator

[Jimmy]

Today, America can dream again. Today, America can breathe in new life. Today, America can shine in audacious light. Today we renew our faith in that city upon a hill. Today, we renew our ideals of faith, hope, equality, and freedom that is America. Thank you for being part of today.

[Anthony]

Today was a great step in the right direction to change the country. America has never and will never be perfect but it takes everyone to keep changing it over time to make things work.
I believe Obama will do whatever he can to end discrimination on all levels to all groups, hell, his wife is related to slaves back a few generations. This is finally one of the last of the final steps of the Civil Rights Movement for African Americans. The Gay Rights Movement started in the 50s, but we can't remember that it is still up to each of us. If WE want to change it. WE can.

[ShermanStreet]

Like all politicians, Obama will take our money and talk a good game then throw us under the bus. Bill Clinton said he saw the future and we were in it-we ended up with DOMA and DADT. Bush for all his faults could not get the FMA through congress.

In 2012, DOMA and DADT will still be on the books and ENDA will not.

The large turnout for Obama may cause Prop 8 to pass in CA

We cannot depend on anyone but ourselves

[Paul]

Hip, hip, hooray! Satan is defeated! Now all you racist, right wing cracka' queens can exercise your "preference", by packing your AM talk radios up and moving the hell out of our country. After all, it's going to suck right? With all of this up coming socialism and terrorist running over the front lawn you use to own. You can sit on the same plane to Germany as Rush and Hanity, not that they would want to sit next to queers. Now you know how we felt when Bush stole the election 8 years ago. Except this time, Barack beat Old Man McCain like McCain used to beat the slaves. McCain conceded 2 seconds after the polls closed. Not only that, the country threw Republicans out the Senate and the House left and right (but mostly right). I guess there must have been a lot of "not fit to lead, inexperienced Republicans" in there for the party to be rejected so. Face it, this is not just about Obama winning, it is a complete rejection of the GOP, it's stale old negative politics of fear and hate and its anti middle and lower class policies. Despite the Republican lies about Obama being an Arab, a Moslem, a terrorist and taking away your job and money, the country said, WE RATHER HAVE OBAMA THAN ANOTHER ASSHOLE LIKE McCAIN and oh by the way, here's a Democratic congress to work with you! Grandpa McCain can shuffle off to the GOP rest home with "W" and Sarah what's her name can be seen in Saturday Night Live reruns. Oh and I guess her knocked up daughter ain't getting married now.

[David]

Obama equals a shift in socialism.

I believe in a Democracy not a Sociacracy.

I just hope in 4 years we can elect a worthy person who can foster and grow Democracy and inspire people to WORK and not seek HANDOUTS! I dont want my tax dollars going to bums.

[David]

This is my answer to Paul's post.

You sound like a racist, and a socialist.

Maybe you should go to Russia or any other European country. They're socialistic. I know, because I used to live there. I like America, and love freedom to express oneself.

Did you forget that right that we have? Or, do you want to suppress it in order to propel elitism to the forefront of daily life?

[OldKingTroll]

now comes the hard part: governing. for the good of the country and of the larger world, may he be as good a president as he is charasmatic as a speaker

[Sarah]

Being British and not living in the States, I feel it won't affect me to much.
I'd just like to voice my concern however, about that slip about Muslim beliefs.... slightly worrying .. I guess you'll say anything to become President, after all Bill Clinton .. "Did not have sexual relationships with that woman"
However saying that its wonderful to see History made and someone younger who may have a more liberal attitude towards LGBT Communities, who can say .. God Bless America

[Splerrk]

Finally America has grown up to take a Major Step in Equality to show the world that we are more like what we portray ourselves as.
I think this will do wonders to earn back the repect from most of the rest of the world.
I think, as a white man & for being gay, that most of us gays have been descriminated against. Some maybe to the extent of being th Black Sheep of our own families.
Even though Prop 8 here in California looks to be passing I feel through the Obama win that descrimination is 1 step less even amongst our own Gay Community.
& Tonight felt better just for that.

[Joe]

I truly hope that I am wrong about assuming that Obama would say anything to become president. As a true member of the GLBT community I understand how underrepresented our issues are. I believe in hoping for change and this time in our lives shows us an opportunity for just that. If the issues that Obama champions become back peddle fodder, let us all remember that it is hope that lets us all free ourselves.

[Dale]

Well I am happy with the out come and if people are that horrified YOU ALL KNOW WHERE THE BORDERS ARE! Feel free to go ahead and leave, we won't miss you. Because OUR president has been chosen and it is a beautiful thing.

[oh & by the way]

Look who is calling the kettle Black or in this case white,for David above on Socialism.
Reason some people are Forced to Take handouts is because most a lot of jobs are being Outsourced to Socialist countries like China for just one lame example.
In return only the Elite Social US Right wing Republican receive a pocket lining.

[Matthew]

I honestly hope that for the sake of our country, that Obama really will bring great change to our country and that people did not elect him to see change in our government in the form of race. I dont know how things will turn out, but I really do hope things get better with him, despite the fact Obama does not seem ready to become president, and so many other reasons why I am proud to say I did NOT vote for him; I really do hope he can bring some good to us all. If not...I guess I can get the 'I told you so' card out and ready.

[Tim]

Wow for the majority of you that have posted here. WHAT THE HELL! I am getting the vibe that possible gay.com had a slew of new people sign up tonight , maybe some of our "christian or more conservative" to voice there feeling about our new President.

I would find it hard to believe that anyone who is gay and has ever felt the pain of prejudice would say some of the things I have read here.

Maybe this is a good lesson for us all, if you are stupid and ignorant it does not matter if you are str8, gay, black, or white; you are just plain stupid and ignorant. Before we label ourselves with a race and sexual preference or political party remember we are all human beings.

Remember we as Americans have the power to right our wrongs, we don't we sit back and bitch about it we are intimidated by a government that has been allowed to manipulate us.( 9 out of 10 people are more afraid of the IRS than law enforcement )

My heart felt belief is that tonight was the first step in reclaiming the United States of America. Forward thinkers to the front of the line please.

Congratulation to President Obamah and God bless

[Robert]

Well I think that a mistake was made. Most blacks cannot tell you why they voted for this man, all they know is he is black.That was the wrong reason, it was suppose to be about experience not color. I was not fond of McCain either but come on people what are you thinking. This election was suppose to be for a change well hold on to your curlers guys and girls its going to be one heck of a change.

[Mike]

The only thing I'd change about Obama would be to have him openly support gay marriage. However, it's obvious that he had to come out against gay marriage, because otherwise with the USA where it is today, ideologically, he would have torpedoed his campaign. He had to sell out on that front to get elected. It's almost forgivable.

Otherwise, all I can think is that finally we have a chance for this long national nightmare to come to an end, with a new president who truly embodies progressive ideals, and will move us away from the disastrous trends of a dictatorial executive branch, scaled-back civil liberties, reckless deregulation, and hotheaded imperialism.

It's funny how people keep tossing around this whole "socialist" thing, even though Obama is by no means a socialist. He just appears socialist when compared side-by-side with the extreme reactionary right-wing free-market screw-the-poor-and-less-fortunate ideologues who have held this country in a stranglehold for the past 28 years.

Besides, I thought we'd be over this "socialism fearmongering" by now. Wasn't that just a relic of the anti-communist cold war? Honestly, what's so bad about a sociopolitical philosophy that actually believes in looking after society's least fortunate? Most western nations have far more socialist policies in place than the USA (even Canada, our closest neighbor, both literally and ideologically), and we are the ones who come out looking backwards by comparison. Don't worry, you'll still be able to be greedy and rich if you have the right ambitions/connections and get lucky. It's not going to become a totalitarian state now (in fact, probably much less so once Bush and Cheney are out of office). The only difference is the uber-rich might actually have to pay their fair share, and, e.g., everybody might actually end up with access to quality, affordable healthcare. (I know, such a revolutionary thought.)

I'm just relieved beyond belief that I may finally no longer have to be embarrassed for my government -- a government which, for far too long, has been taking a gigantic, steaming crap on the poor and unfortunate, on the environment, on scarce resources, and on the rest of the world in general. If Obama lives up to his promises, we can finally move on from that.

[richard]

I am glad we can have a black president .We really need a new look,though I am a Chinese in China .hehe

[emtrjt]

It does not matter to me what color the president is, as long as he runs our country the way it is supposed to be run. I am glad we are not going to have another bush in the office. We as a country could not handle another 4 years of another bush. Our economy is really bad and hopefully Obama will turn that around.

[joey]

I'm just wondering when Obama's library will be completed? I'm sure they must have started it since he is the greatest president ever(insert sarcasm) before he's actually even president. Who knows he might not make it to Jan 21....

[-]

I cant believe so many hateful comments here against Obama, and which very obvious because of his colour. I'm here in Australia, and most I knew here have been wishing well for Obama. I was quite surprised.

[Michael]

What a sad day for this country. Are we so gullable to believe he can lead this country safely?