Washington– Today the Human Rights Campaign – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization – announced the endorsement of former U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie running in the Democratic primary for Governor of Hawaii.  Abercrombie has a stellar record on LGBT equality in contrast to his opponent, Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann, who has indicated his opposition to full equality on issues affecting LGBT citizens.

“Neil Abercrombie is a true friend of equality,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “There is no doubt that as Hawaii’s next governor, Neil Abercrombie will fight every day for all the people of Hawaii, including its LGBT citizens. His voting record in Congress demonstrates he always acts with courage and conviction for what is right.”

"I am honored to have the support of the Human Rights Campaign.  We'll need everyone's help to stand up for the fundamental democratic principle of equality," said Abercrombie.  "People's civil rights cannot be compromised.  As Governor, I will be committed to that most essential of constitutional imperatives."

Neil Abercrombie’s record on fairness and equality is in-line with the people of Hawaii.  In the U.S. Congress, Abercrombie consistently scored a 100 percent on HRC’s congressional scorecards.  Abercrombie supported the recent civil unions bill, which was vetoed by Governor Lingle in the 11th hour, and has pledged to sign similar legislation should it make it to his desk as governor.  While polling shows 81 percent of the people of Hawaii support equal rights for same-sex families, Hannemann supports Republican Governor Lingle’s opposition to equal treatment under the law for all Hawaii’s families.

“Neil Abercrombie is the only candidate in the governor’s race who stands with the vast majority of the people of Hawaii who support equal civil rights for everyone, including LGBT people.  Neil Abercrombie believes in strong families and strong communities and realizes that LGBT families are part of those communities,” added Solmonese.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.