As a great nation, we are coming together.  As a community, we are falling apart.  The gay community in particular has been hard hit by the scandal that threatens to change the champion into an awful stereotype. 

Our objection is not to the sexual nature of Sam Adams’ behavior, but with the methods he has used to dispel the “rumors”  (now proven true).  Sam Adams used deceit and cowardice as tools to further his own career, regardless of several innocents harmed by his actions.  To this day, it is our opinion that he regrets getting caught, but not his mistreatment of others (with the possible exception of the young man in question).   Sam Adams has stated that he does not owe Robert Ball an apology…we disagree (click here for Sam's own words).

Sam Adams says that his years of public service somehow tip the karma scales back in his favor, even though he bullied and bribed to secure other people’s silence.  Many people have noted that he has a long history of “not playing nice.”

Here, verbatim,  is the Willamette Week’s reluctant endorsement of Sam Adams in his 2008 mayoral bid:

Sam Adams can be criticized for many things. He’s too calculating. He’s got a mean side. He’s been in politics too long. He never saw a tax he didn’t like. He uses too much product in his hair. You can credit Adams with one thing: He really wants the $111,000-a-year job.

And Sam Adams will do anything to keep it.  Does he really think that his continued stewardship of Portland and all us citizens is “in the city’s best interest?”  So many people are outraged, and certain communities will not heal from his betrayal for a long time.  No, it is not the good of the city, but the good of Sam Adams that he is concerned with.

Please heed the call of Just Out, The Tribune, and the Oregonian and step down.  This is a golden opportunity for you to act “in the city’s best interest.”